Synthetic Observations of the Planetary Boundary Layer from Space: A Retrieval Observing System Simulation Experiment Framework

To address critical gaps identified by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine in the current Earth system observation strategy, the 2017-27 Decadal Survey for Earth Science and Applications from Space recommended incubating concepts for future targeted observables including the atmospheric planetary boundary layer (PBL). A subsequent NASA PBL Incubation Study Team Report identified measurement requirements and activities for advancing the maturity of the technologies applicable to the PBL targeted observables and their associated science and applications priorities. While the PBL is the critical layer where humans live and surface energy, moisture, and mass exchanges drive the Earth system, it is also the farthest and most inaccessible layer for spaceborne instruments. Here we document a PBL retrieval observing system simulation experiment (OSSE) framework suitable for assessing existing and new measurement techniques and determining their accuracy and improvements needed for addressing the elevated Decadal Survey requirements. In particular, the benefits of large-eddy simulation (LES) are emphasized as a key source of high-resolution synthetic observations for key PBL regimes: from the tropics, through subtropics and midlatitudes, to subpolar and polar regions. The potential of LES-based PBL retrieval OSSEs is explored using six instrument simulators: Global Navigation Satellite System-Radio Occultation, differential absorption radar, visible to shortwave infrared spectrometer, infrared sounder, Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer, and microwave sounder. The crucial role of LES in PBL retrieval OSSEs and some perspectives for instrument developments are discussed.

Automated summary

This article introduces a simulation experiment framework for evaluating existing and new measurement techniques for the planetary boundary layer (PBL), highlighting the role of large-eddy simulation (LES) in providing high-resolution synthetic observations. The potential of LES-based PBL retrieval experiments is explored using various instrument simulators, and perspectives for instrument development are discussed.