Status of the ARGOS (Aerosol Radiometer for Global Observation of the Stratosphere) instrument

Monitoring aerosols in the stratosphere requires measurements with good vertical resolution and comprehensive spatial sampling. We have developed a small satellite instrument that utilizes the limb scattering observation technique to meet these requirements. The Aerosol Radiometer for Global Observation of the Stratosphere (ARGOS) instrument measures radiance profiles in eight equally spaced directions simultaneously, using two near-infrared wavelengths (870nm and 1550nm) to improve penetration into the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UT/LS). The combination of multiple viewing directions and multiple wavelengths provides improved spatial sampling and statistical leverage to validate the particle size distribution used to retrieve aerosol extinction. ARGOS is scheduled for a technology demonstration flight in February 2025.