What type of lidar is specifically used for measuring atmospheric gases?

Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL) is specifically designed to measure atmospheric gases by utilizing the principle of differential absorption. This technique involves using two different wavelengths of light—one wavelength that is absorbed by the gas of interest and another that is not. By comparing the intensity of the light that is scattered back to the lidar system at these wavelengths, DIAL can accurately determine the concentration of specific gases in the atmosphere.

The method capitalizes on the unique absorption characteristics of various gases, allowing for precise measurements even in complex atmospheric conditions. This makes DIAL a crucial tool in environmental monitoring, pollution tracking, and atmospheric research.

Other lidar types mentioned, such as Time-of-Flight Lidar and Continuous Wave Lidar, serve various purposes, including topographic mapping and obstacle detection, rather than specialized measurements of atmospheric gases. Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) is a more general term that encompasses various lidar technologies without specifically indicating gas measurement capabilities.