Institute for Atmospheric Physics

The departments of the Institute

Atmospheric Dynamics

The department "Atmospheric Dynamics" studies the atmospheric motion and the transport of energy and mass within the atmosphere. It employs several numerical simulation models and uses a diversity of atmospheric data sets. The department has two main research topics: Global and mesoscale modelling. Additionally, a group manages and operates the IT structure of the institute.

Atmospheric Trace Species

Trace gases and aerosols play a key role in atmospheric physics and chemistry via homogeneous and heterogeneous chemical reactions, phase transitions, and interaction with radiation. The department investigates the distribution of trace species in the troposphere and lower stratosphere and the processes involved (natural and anthropogenic emissions, transport, chemistry, aerosol composition and physics).

Atmospheric Remote Sensing

Climate and chemistry of the atmosphere are affected by a variety of parameters, the most important of which are clouds, aerosol, and water vapour. A prediction of future climate is therefore only possible with a profound knowledge of these components and their interaction with solar and thermal radiation. Satellite observations provide information about spatial distribution and temporal changes of atmospheric quantities.

Cloud Physics and Traffic Meteorology

Cloud growth and precipitation formation represent the state of the troposphere and thus the weather. Weather and precipitation as rain, hail and snow as well as wind and turbulence have important impact on aviation and ground transportation. Aircraft wake vortices impose a hazard to aviation; the current safe separation standards between aircraft, however, are over-conservative under many weather conditions. Wind and turbulence often transport the vortices away from the flight corridor and quickly discreate their structure and strength.

Lidar

The department Lidar uses ground based and airborne lidar systems for active remote sensing of wind velocity, water vapour, aerosols, clouds and trace gases such as ozone and methane.