Study of ice cloud properties using infrared spectral data

To quantify the radiative forcing of ice clouds, we need to fully understand the optical and microphysical properties of these clouds. This paper reports on some preliminary results associated with the optical properties of ice crystals within ice clouds and the effect of ice crystal habit on the retrieval of ice cloud properties from use of the infrared spectrum. Furthermore, various cloud parameters retrieved from the atmospheric infrared sounder (AIRS) data are also reported.