Refining Planetary Boundary Layer Height Retrievals From Micropulse‐Lidar at Multiple ARM Sites Around the World

• Published in: Journal of geophysical research. Atmospheres Vol. 129; no. 13
• Main Authors: Roldán‐Henao, Natalia, Su, Tianning, Li, Zhanqing
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 16.07.2024
• Subjects: atmospheric radiation measurement; boundary‐layer heights; lidar; radiosonde
• ISSN: 2169-897X; 2169-8996; 2169-8996
• DOI: 10.1029/2023JD040207

Knowledge of the planetary boundary layer height (PBLH) is crucial for various applications in atmospheric and environmental sciences. Lidar measurements are frequently used to monitor the evolution of the PBLH, providing more frequent observations than traditional radiosonde‐based methods. However, lidar‐derived PBLH estimates have substantial uncertainties, contingent upon the retrieval algorithm used. In addressing this, we applied the Different Thermo‐Dynamic Stabilities (DTDS) algorithm to establish a PBLH data set at five separate Department of Energy's Atmospheric Radiation Measurement sites across the globe. Both the PBLH methodology and the products are subject to rigorous assessments in terms of their uncertainties and constraints, juxtaposing them with other products. The DTDS‐derived product consistently aligns with radiosonde PBLH estimates, with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.77 across all sites. This study delves into a detailed examination of the strengths and limitations of PBLH data sets with respect to both radiosonde‐derived and other lidar‐based estimates of the PBLH by exploring their respective errors and uncertainties. It is found that varying techniques and definitions can lead to diverse PBLH retrievals due to the inherent intricacy and variability of the boundary layer. Our DTDS‐derived PBLH data set outperforms existing products derived from ceilometer data, offering a more precise representation of the PBLH. This extensive data set paves the way for advanced studies and an improved understanding of boundary‐layer dynamics, with valuable applications in weather forecasting, climate modeling, and environmental studies. Plain Language Summary The planetary boundary layer (PBL) is the lowest region of the atmosphere directly influenced by Earth's surface. This layer is vital as it connects the atmosphere to surface processes. Given its importance, accurately determining its height (PBLH) is crucial for weather, climate, and air quality studies. However, current PBLH estimates either have infrequent time intervals, as seen with radiosondes, or face notable uncertainties, like those derived from remote sensing techniques. This research evaluates a new lidar‐based PBLH method at five Department of Energy's Atmospheric Radiation Measurement sites across the globe. The PBLH data set from the new methodology aligns well with radiosonde, with notably smaller biases compared to the existing products. Additionally, this study investigates potential errors in our PBLH data, revealing that varying techniques and definitions can produce different PBLH values, highlighting the complex and dynamic nature of the PBL. Key Points This study evaluates the performance of the new Different Thermo‐Dynamic Stabilities (DTDS) algorithm at five Department of Energy's Atmospheric Radiation Measurement sites DTDS‐derived boundary layer data set outperforms existing lidar‐derived products at all five sites, offering a more precise representation This study provides an extensive boundary layer height data set that paves the way for future investigations in various applications