Simulations of Space-Based CO2 Measurements: Measurement Impacts on Mesoscale Transport Modeling

We have developed an algorithm testbed designed for end-to-end simulation of atmospheric lidar measurements. The testbed provides a framework for the rapid prototype and development of trace gas remote sensing systems. It not only provides a means of simulating sensor performance during the design phase, but also provides a modular implementation that enables integrations algorithm tools with measured data from prototype/operational sensors. Further, the retrieved output parameters can be fed directly into data assimilation schemes in order to fully test the utility from an end-user perspective. This paper describes the application of this testbed to a LIDAR system designed to measure atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂). We provide results of sensor simulation studies and show how assimilation of data from a satellite-based LIDAR system would enhance the regional modeling and simulation of sources and sinks of atmospheric CO₂.