Trace gases and aerosols play a key role in atmospheric physics and chemistry via chemical reactions, phase transitions, and interaction with radiation. The department investigates the distribution of climate-relevant trace species in the atmosphere and the processes involved. This includes the characterization of natural and anthropogenic emissions from selected sources, as well as the investigation of transport and transformation processes. For this purpose, in-situ measurement techniques for trace gases and ions are developed. The instruments are deployed worldwide, on different platforms: research aircraft, Lufthansa in-service aircraft, helicopter towed probe, UAVs).
DLR research aircraft HALO , a platform used by the department Atmospheric Trace Species.
Quantification and characterisation of methane emissions from various anthropogenic and natural sources (fossil sector, waste, wetlands, mud volcanoes)
Quantification and characterisation of nitrous oxide emissions from the agricultural sector
Determination of aviation emissions, in particular from alternative fuels and advanced engine technologies
Validation of satellite data using sensitive in-situ methods
Investigations on the detection of greenhouse gases by satellite remote sensing
Performance of model simulations on the dispersion of trace gas emissions, supporting the interpretation of the field measurements
For this purpose, the following in situ measurement systems are applied:
