French LiDAR research: From fundamental science to industrial applications
A recent feature article published in Photoniques(issue 136) offers a broad overview of LiDAR remote sensing in France, covering the technology’s scientific foundations, current research directions, and ongoing efforts to translate laboratory developments into operational systems.
The article, co-authored by researchers from several leading French institutions, including ONERA, LATMOS, LOA, LMD, iLMand Thales, describes how LiDAR systems exploit the directional and spectral properties of laser light to measure atmospheric constituents, wind fields, aerosol distributions, and terrain topography. As illustrated by the photograph of a laser shot at the Observatoire de Haute-Provence (OHP), these systems operate across a wide range of platforms, from ground-based observatories to airborne and spaceborne configurations.
On the measurement side, the article discusses advances in both direct-detection and coherent-detection architectures. For atmospheric characterisation, techniques combining Raman scattering, elastic backscatter, polarimetry, and laser-induced fluorescence allow increasingly fine classification of aerosol types, distinguishing mineral dust, pollen, urban particles and smoke, as shown in the depolarisation–fluorescence diagram reproduced from recent ACTRIS network publications. Long-term ozone profile series measured at French observatories are noted as among the longest continuous records of their kind worldwide.
The article also highlights successful technology transfers from academic research to industry. In this context, the AGORA-Lab, a joint laboratory between LOAand CIMEL, is cited as an example of collaborative development that has led to compact, automated LiDAR instruments, including Raman and multi-wavelength fluorescence systems, now integrated within the ACTRIS European research infrastructure.
The national LiDAR HD programme, illustrated through a point cloud map of central Paris, demonstrates how these technologies are already being deployed at scale for land use, flood risk management and urban planning purposes.
The article concludes that while French LiDAR research maintains a strong international standing, further work on system miniaturisation, cost reduction and automation remains necessary to broaden industrial uptake.
Aerosols, whether transported from distant continents or generated locally, play a critical role in cloud formation, sunlight reflection, and climate dynamics. Yet, their behavior over the oceans remains poorly documented due to the logistical challenges of conducting continuous measurements at sea. TRANSAMA was designed to fill this gap by deploying state-of-the-art instrumentation capable of capturing both column-integrated and vertically resolved aerosol data in a fully autonomous, shipborne environment.
Two CIMEL instruments formed the backbone of this observational campaign. The CE318-T Sun/Sky-Lunar photometer, set up permanently on board the ship since 2021, continuously recorded aerosol optical depth and particle size distribution during daylight hours, while the micro-LiDAR scanned the vertical structure of the atmosphere, revealing the layering of aerosols and their interactions with clouds.
Installed on the deck and carefully adapted for marine conditions, these instruments worked in harmony, providing a detailed picture of the atmosphere above the Atlantic.
As part of the official visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Southeast Asia in May 2025, a delegation of French companies and institutions took part in a strategic mission in Vietnam and Indonesia under the “France-Vietnam: A Shared Future” initiative.
CIMEL, represented by Idris SANHAJ, our Sales and Marketing Director, was honored to be part of the French delegation, reaffirming our commitment to international scientific and environmental cooperation.
During this mission, CIMEL had the opportunity to engage with several national authorities and scientific institutions:
In Indonesia, Idris visited the BMKG (Badan Meteorologi, Klimatologi, dan Geofisika), the national agency for meteorology, climatology, and geophysics, to explore avenues for collaboration on atmospheric observation and extreme weather monitoring (picture on the left).
In Vietnam, he met with the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) and several research teams to discuss cooperation in aerosol monitoring, dust events, and solar radiation measurements (picture on the right).
This mission, supported by Team France Export and the French Embassy, highlighted CIMEL’s role as a key player in atmospheric observation technologies in the Asia-Pacific region — particularly in the context of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) and climate change adaptation strategies.
We are deeply grateful to all our partners for their warm welcome and shared ambition to tackle pressing environmental challenges through science and innovation.
CIMEL is proud to contribute to global initiatives for a cleaner, more resilient, and sustainable future.
Since 1991, LOA and CIMEL have collaborated to advance and refine photometry techniques for measuring aerosols and water vapor. This collaboration was at the origin of the NASA AERONET planetary network, built with the CIMEL sun/sky/lunar photometers for over three decades. In 2005, building on this success, they extended their cooperation to include aerosol LiDAR technologies. Finally, in 2020, LOA and CIMEL established a joint research laboratory, AGORA-Lab, to develop advanced remote sensing technologies, including Lidars and photometers, and to combine them for cutting-edge performance.
LiDARs provide high-resolution vertical profiles of aerosols and clouds, while photometers offer column-integrated aerosol optical properties. By combining these measurements, calibration, quality control and retrievals are enhanced, leading to better quantification and characterization of aerosols and higher-level data products.
Since 2012, CIMEL and LOA have collaborated on developing the CE710 LiDAR, a high-power, multi-spectral Mie-Raman-Fluorescence LiDAR, spearheading significant advancements in aerosol measurement capabilities. The first version, called LILAS, was set up on the ATOLL platform (Atmospheric Observatory of Lille) and has been part of ACTRIS since 2015.
LOA and CIMEL continuously advance the industrialization and validation of the CE710 LiDAR range, making it a cost-efficient, modular solution that is ACTRIS-ready, meaning it meets all current and future guidelines. This cutting-edge technology provides innovative features that enhance measurement accuracy, operational efficiency, and adaptability to evolving scientific needs.
CE710 LiDAR range: Key features
Multi-wavelength emission: 355, 532 and 1064 nm.
Up to 15 detection channels: to profile a wide range of atmospheric parameters, including aerosol backscatter, depolarization, fluorescence, water vapor, trace gases, and temperature.
Advanced laser technology: Uses diode or flash-lamp pumped Nd:YAG lasers with energy per pulse up to 200 mJ at 355 nm and repetition rate up to 200 Hz.
Depolarization capability: Measures linear depolarization ratios at multiple wavelengths to distinguish between spherical and non-spherical particles.
Fluorescence detection: Provides additional vertically resolved information to improve aerosol typing.
Customizable configurations: The modular design allows adaptation to initial and evolving research objectives.
Robust and transportable design: Facilitates installation, inside or outside with optional thermal enclosure.
Data Processing: Includes AUSTRAL software for real-time visualization and interpretation of measurement data.
Key benefits of the CE710 LiDARs for the ACTRIS community
Enhanced data quality: The CE710 meets all the requirements of the stringent ACTRIS Quality Assurance guidelines, that ensure high measurement precision and reliability and are a prerequisite for data certification by ACTRIS.
Comprehensive aerosol profiling: The multi-channel design allows detailed characterization of aerosol physical and chemical properties, providing valuable inputs for atmospheric models.
Integrated calibration tools: The built-in remote control and calibration functions enable operators to consistently perform standardized quality control operations over time.
Advanced analysis capabilities: The AUSTRAL software offers real-time data processing and visualization, enabling quick assessment of atmospheric conditions and facilitating advanced research and collaborative projects.
Future-Proof Design: The modular architecture supports future upgrades, allowing the system to adapt to evolving scientific requirements and technological advancements.
For more information on the CE710 LiDAR range, click here!
The Latin America Lidar Network (LALINET), was created during the first Workshop on LiDAR Measurement in Latin America (WLMLA) in 2001, to better understand aerosol distribution over South America and its impact on weather and climate.
The goal of this event was to share knowledge between LiDAR researchers and students, promoting cooperation between scientific members of the LiDAR community, and fostering future LiDAR research projects to strengthen the Latin-American Lidar Network (LALINET).
Two representatives from CIMEL, Dr.Ioana Popoviciand Dr. Igor Veselovskii, had the opportunity to present our LiDAR technology and share some data collected on smoke and dust events using our CE376 LiDAR and the CE710 LILAS depolarization and fluorescence channels.
It was also the opportunity to introduce our new LiDAR CE710 developed within AGORA-Lab.
Special thanks to LALINET and IPEN for the organization of this conference.
French President Emmanuel Macron Leads CIMEL and Various French Companies in Brazil for Economic Diplomacy and Green Transition Innovation
Keywords: Aerosols, monitoring, remote sensing, green transition, innovation.
March 25-28th 2024
Once again CIMEL had the honor to be part of the French delegation accompanying the French president Emmanuel MACRON this time in Brazil in SĂŁo Paulo from 25th to 28th March 2024.
Organized by MEDEF International and Business France, this delegation of over 80 French companies was embarking on a journey to Brazil, aimed at fostering stronger economic ties between the two countries.
Through a comprehensive agenda created around multiple business possibilities, heavy discussions have been conducted between French companies and other stakeholders. CIMEL, in particular, has actively participated in meetings with significant entities such as the Brazilian Space Agency (INPE), the University of SĂŁo Paulo, the Institute of Advanced Studies (IPEN), as well as ministers and responsible for finance, cities, energy, and environment.
Encounter with the Remote Sensing experts from the University of SĂŁo Paulo.
It was particularly interesting for CIMEL to meet these scientific entities in sectors such as space research, advanced technology, and energy, as these areas align closely with CIMEL’s expertise and potential for collaboration and innovation.
CE318 site – University of SĂŁo PauloCIMEL visiting the University of SĂŁo Paulo
The most popular event of the visit is the Franco-Brazil Business Forum addressing energy transition, which involves President Macron and Geraldo Alckmin – the Vice-President of Brazil. The Forum discussed the initiatives of how the investments will change color into “green” for both governments and revealed plans for sustainable development.
CIMEL meeting the French President during the Business Forum.
The presence of Laurent Saint-Martin, Director General of Business France, brought a decisive vision of the strengths of France with its delegation.
As CIMEL continues to forge ahead in its quest for international expansion, this business trip served as a demonstration of its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and global leadership in the sector of atmospheric and environmental monitoring.
🇫🇷 🇸🇦 | Exciting times for 120 French companies as Business France, led by Franck Riester and in collaboration with the Secretariat General for Investment and the Movement of French International Enterprises, ventures into Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia is undergoing a significant metamorphosis, offering unparalleled opportunities for French companies of all sizes across various sectors. CIMEL is actively contributing to this innovative transformation.
NEOM City, a groundbreaking project, stands as a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s ambition for the future. This futuristic city, focusing on innovation and sustainability, presents immense possibilities for collaboration and investment. CIMEL, recognizing its potential, is actively engaged in discussions and presentations to showcase its expertise in contributing to NEOM’s environmental purposes.
Furthermore, last week marked the beginning of the 1st International Conference on Sand and Dust Storms, hosted by the National Center for Meteorology in #KSA, with CIMEL’s involvement. Follow the three days of lectures at https://youtu.be/rVHzYSVog_U, where CIMEL played a key role in sharing insights and ongoing activities related to #SDS within WMO and the United Nations.
An inspiring week, where CIMEL’s dual commitment to economic transformation and environmental responsibility takes center stage.
CIMEL was able to explain how our cutting-edge technology enhances aerosols remote sensing capabilities. The synergy between our aerosol photometers and LiDARs, integrated into the iAAMS software, allows for comprehensive data analysis and visualization of aerosols (characterization, location, concentration…). The incorporation of the GRASP algorithm refines aerosol characterization and better concentration profiles, proving invaluable in monitoring sand and dust storms. This technological advancement highlights a collective commitment to economic transformation and environmental responsibility, positioning CIMEL as a key player in a sustainable future.
At the invitation of King Carl XVI Gustaf, the French PresidentEmmanuel MACRON, went on a diplomatic state visit in Sweden (Stockholm, Lund and Malmö), organized in collaboration with Business France andBusiness Sweden from January 29th to 31st 2024.
He was accompanied by his wife, Brigitte Macron, ministers of the French government such as Minister of Research Sylvie RETAILLEAU, along representatives of the French Parliament, public authorities, and cultural organizations.
CIMEL is proud to have been part of the French delegation of 12 companies that joined this mission to strengthen relations between France and the Swedish market.
This mission aims to enhance more collaboration on innovation concerning the space industry and ecological transition, where Cimel is fully involved.
CIMEL could demonstrate how our solutions help address challenges related to satellite data validation, air quality and climate change by providing valuable insights and new data. Our objectives are to develop aerosols monitoring networks across Europe, especially through ACTRIS and to bring a strong added value to the air quality application.
A Business Forum organized by Business Sweden took place in Stockholm under the high patronage of King Carl XVI Gustaf. Around 200 Swedish and French business representatives were present for the occasion, with the heads of state and ministers from Sweden and France. Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel graced the delegation with their presence.
Cimel through our Sales and Marketing Director, Idris SANHAJ was able to talk to the French President Emmanuel MACRON about an innovative project that is set to be implemented soon. This will highlight the national strategic technological innovation combined with the recent scientific progress.
By combining climate modeling, through in-situ sensors, our ground remote sensing and satellite data, we allow more accurate air quality forecasting and so decision-making for public health and environmental management.
To summarize, our participation in this mission in Sweden has been immensely fruitful.
We had the privilege of engaging with numerous partners, fostering meaningful connections, and presenting our innovative solutions.
We are grateful for the visibility provided by this mission, which has undoubtedly contributed to expanding our presence in the global market and advancing our mission to address critical environmental challenges through cutting-edge and made-in-France solutions.
On the night of Wednesday, August 22, 2018, the CIMEL’s micro-LiDAR flew for the first time in a stratospheric balloon for the validation of the project, from Timmins Air Force Base, in Ontario (Canada).
Indeed, CIMEL’s LiDARs are well known for their robustness and energetic Self-reliance which allows low maintenance: practical when the LiDARs are up to 20km in the stratosphere!
Figure 1: Preparation of a stratospheric balloon before the takeoff
The program uses stratospheric pressurized balloons filled with helium 11 to 13 meters in diameter. During 3 to 4 months, they are carried by the winds all around the tropical belt and are propelled up to 20 kilometers in the atmosphere. Some can travel across 80,000 kilometers around the world (Figure 2).
The objectives are to try to clarify some of the grey areas that hinder our detailed understanding of the atmosphere and its role in the Earth’s climate. BECOOL allows scientists to study atmospheric dynamics and composition such as convection or the dynamic coupling between the troposphere and the stratosphere. Exchanges and air movements between these two atmospheric layers are important and influence the whole planet.
However, the tropical region is difficult to access. Consequently, the classical methods of observation (by satellites, by plane, …) are not enough. This is why using balloons is strategic: they are the only ones able to observe these phenomena in real time and very closely to the atmosphere.
“It is a completely original mode of sampling, which is not obtained otherwise and allows results of unequaled finesse” (A. Hertzog).
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CIMELin the French delegation of the French President on his mission in China.
CIMEL is proud to have accompanied the French President Emmanuel Macron on his mission in China, organized in collaboration with Business France and the French Embassy from April 3rd to 7th 2023.
This was an important geopolitical event, as we were part of the first French delegation to come back in China after the reopening of the borders and the lifting of sanitary restrictions linked to COVID-19.
It was also an opportunity for companies such as ours (with special regards to Chromatotec, ENVEA Group, Greentech Innovation) to shine through lobbying and gathering decision makers on climate change and environmental issues.
Our Sales and Marketing Director, Idris SANHAJ and our International Business Developer Laura MARIT have represented CIMEL through business meetings with our Chinese partners (CMA Chinese Meteorological Agency, CAS Chinese Academy of Sciences, Environmental Monitoring Centers of Shanghai Municipality and Jiangsu Province, Guangzhou University…) and to exchange ideas with various members of the French delegation organized by Business France.
They had the opportunity to encounter the French President Emmanuel Macron and had a brief meeting with the Minister of Economy and Finance Bruno Lemaire to discuss the future of air quality application with our innovative solutions, in particular for the JO2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
During this mission, CIMEL has presented its remote sensing solutions for aerosols monitoring, used to increase the understanding of atmospheric phenomenas, improve and validate air quality models.
This combination of climate modeling, through in-situ sensors, satellite data, and ground remote sensing, allows for more accurate air quality forecasting and decision-making for public health and environmental management.
We look forward to continuing to serve our customers in China and across the globe with the same level of excellence and dedication that has become synonymous with our brand Made in France.
