The remote measurement of trace atmospheric species by correlation interferometry. I - Carbon monoxide and methane

A correlation interferometer has been developed for the measurement of carbon monoxide and methane at 2.35 micrometers in the troposphere and in the stratosphere. This instrument has been tested in laboratory tests, solar-looking outdoor tests, and downward-looking airplane-based tests. The aircraft tests were flown on a Falcon fanjet provided by The Canada Centre for Remote Sensing over both polluted and unpolluted regions of North America. The results of these various tests are discussed. Based on the results obtained for carbon monoxide and methane, a study was undertaken to investigate the feasibility of measuring other atmospheric trace species by correlation interferometry. Results of the feasibility study for carbon dioxide, water vapor, ammonia, nitrous oxide, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and several hydrocarbons are presented.