Influence of electromagnetic interference on the evaluation of lidar-derived aerosol properties from Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard

Abstract

Possible interference sources for our aerosol lidar setup with transient recorders have been assessed. This was done by two methods: a spectrum analysis of the lidar signals in order to detect radio-frequency interference and measurements of the electromagnetic interference caused by the laser power supply. We found disturbances in the analog channels of the transient recorders, presumably caused by aging effects of our older recorders. An easy method on how the signal-to-noise ratio can be improved retrospectively is presented. We also show that the usage of two-way radio at our location leads to a noticeable radio-frequency interference in the lidar profiles. Further, we present measurements of the electromagnetic interference caused by the laser power supply, which may lead to disturbances in the lidar profiles if the transient recorders are placed next to it.