1：Experimental Design and Method Selection:

The study developed a new cloud screening method using two tests: a temporal variability test based on AOT measurements from sun-pointing and sky-scan modes, and a coarse mode test based on volume size distributions. Thresholds were determined statistically using SYNOP cloud coverage data.

2：Sample Selection and Data Sources:

Data were collected over a three-year period (March 2008–February 2011) at Seoul National University, Korea, using a sky radiometer, SYNOP reports for cloud and dust, and lidar measurements from the NIES network.

3：List of Experimental Equipment and Materials:

Sky radiometer (POM-01L; Prede Co. Ltd.), Kipp & Zonen CH1 pyrheliometer, CM21 shaded pyranometer, and ground-based two-wavelength polarization lidar.

4：Experimental Procedures and Operational Workflow:

Direct and diffuse solar radiation measurements were taken at specific intervals. The variability test used AOTD and AOTR retrievals with thresholds for standard deviation and departure. The coarse mode test used volume size distribution thresholds. Data were compared with SYNOP and lidar data for evaluation.

5：Data Analysis Methods:

Statistical analysis of probability distributions, comparison with SYNOP cloud coverage and lidar-derived parameters (e.g., YSI), and case studies were conducted to evaluate the method's performance.