NASA-ARSET reveals how AERONET contributes to air quality and climate applications

Ground-based networks such as AERONET play a crucial role in atmospheric science and air quality monitoring. During its latest NASA ARSET training titled “Atmospheric Composition Ground Networks Supporting Air Quality,” AERONET was showcased as a global benchmark in providing high-quality aerosol optical data for researchers, air quality managers, and decision-makers.

CIMEL CE318-T photometer enables fully autonomous, standardized, and long-term aerosol monitoring across diverse environments—from megacities to deserts and polar regions. With over 600 stations in 80+ countries, AERONET has become a global reference in satellite validation and atmospheric composition studies.

The ARSET training session reveals:

• How ground-based observations complement satellite missions
• The role of AERONET in policy-relevant applications
• The importance of consistent, open-access data

You can access the training here: NASA ARSET Program

Key benefits of joining NASA-AERONET:

1. Global data integration: As part of AERONET, CE318-T data integrates into a global network, allowing users to compare and access high-quality, standardized aerosol data worldwide, enhancing research with broader data context.
2. Real-time data accessibility: AERONET provides near real-time data processing and availability on its online platform, allowing end-users to access and analyze current aerosol measurements efficiently.
3. High-quality data: CE318-T photometers within AERONET are regularly calibrated at NASA’s calibration facilities, ensuring consistent, reliable, and high-quality data that meet strict scientific standards.
4. Comprehensive aerosol data products: AERONET processes raw CE318-T measurements to deliver aerosol properties like aerosol optical depth (AOD), particle size distribution, and water vapor content, providing users with valuable insights without needing to process the raw data manually.
5. Research collaboration opportunities: By participating in AERONET, end-users gain access to a collaborative network of scientists and research institutions globally, fostering opportunities for joint research projects and data sharing.
6. Data validation for satellite missions: AERONET data is widely used to validate satellite aerosol measurements, allowing end-users to contribute to and benefit from satellite-derived aerosol research and applications in atmospheric studies.
7. Recognition and credibility: Being part of AERONET enhances the credibility of the data collected, as the network is globally recognized in atmospheric sciences, potentially increasing the impact and visibility of users’ research.