Retrieval of droplet-size density distribution from multiple-field-of-viewcross-polarized lidar signals: theory and experimental validation

Multiple-field-of-view (MFOV) secondary-polarization lidar signals are used to calculate the particle-size density distribution (PSD) at the base of a cloud. At the cloud base, multiple scattering is weak and single backscatt ering is predominant by many orders of magnitude. Because secondary polariz ation is a direct measure of multiple scattering, it is therefore advantage ous to use secondary polarization. A mathematical relation among the PSD, t he Lidar fields of view, the scattering angles, and the angular depolarizat ion is derived to facilitate use of secondary polarization. The model is su pported by experimental MFOV lidar measurements carried out in a controlled environment, and its limitations and restrictions are discussed. OCIS code s: 280.0260, 280.1100, 280.3640, 290.4210.