Case Study
Cloud Physics
role of very small particles in Arctic cloud formation
Multi-year Arctic cloud/haze sampling from Svalbard with the GCVI. Working with Stockholm University, a Ground-based CVI cloud sampler has been deployed on a remote Arctic island for over 4 years to study the role of the smallest cloud nuclei on cloud properties.
To date, almost no information is available on the role of sub-50 nm particles in the formation of Arctic clouds even though significant numbers of these particles are transported to the Arctic from lower latitudes. Arctic clouds play an extremely important role in modulating polar climate and in the rate of sea ice melt, so quantitative studies of how cloud properties are changing in the region are critical. Brechtel has provided significant technical support to help ensure high quality data are produced in this extremely harsh environment.