The retrieval of an aerosol scattering phase function using a multi-satellite technique is proposed. A total of 33 phase functions were derived from 18 smoke cases and 15 dust cases. Each case was interrogated using four to nine satellite passes over the aerosol in a two to four hour time frame. The radiance values for the Red and Near-Infrared (NIR) channels were combined with backscattering angles to determine the shape of the scattering phase function. The radiance values were input into the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) aerosol model to determine optical depths and sample phase functions. A comparison was made between the actual phase functions retrieved and the NPS model phase functions. It was found that the phase functions for the smoke cases more closely matched the model phase functions than in the dust cases. Some conclusions could be drawn about the actual aerosol size and density distribution based on how well it matched the model phase function. Further analysis is necessary to define the exact size and number of the aerosol particles. Fully understanding the aerosol composition is crucial in determining its effects on military sensors and impacts to operations.

Thesis (M.S. in Meteorology)--Naval Postgraduate School, March 2005. / Thesis Advisor(s): Philip A. Durkee. Includes bibliographical references (p. 77-78). Also available online.