Recent Advances in Measuring Cloud Albedo with Satellites
Recent advances in satellite cloud albedo measurements, specifically data- assimilation algorithms, cloud profilers, radiometers, and limitations of each are reviewed. There has been a shift from single-instrument radiance measurements to multi-platform instruments able to probe the full vertical profile of clouds. This paradigm aims to measure a wide range of cloud properties which control cloud albedo. These new developments are necessary to reduce remaining uncertainty in cloud albedo and constrain global climate models. This review found that new developments, such as multi-instrument techniques, are necessary to verify results, and new instrumentation and methods enhance the accuracy of the results.
Published in 2008.