CARESSE - Objectives

The combination of lidar observations with in situ measurements and models provides a unique opportunity to conduct long-term inter-calibrations and complementary or simultaneous monitoring of different atmospheric parameters over various space-time scales at RADO, the Romanian Atmospheric 3D research Observatory. RADO relies on the voluntary association of 3 research institutes and 4 universities. 

RADO and its centre – the Remote Sensing Dept. in INOE, is a well connected, well equipped and with a large opening research infrastructure. Data collected are used by ground-based networks (EARLINET, AERONET, MWRNET, ACTRIS), but also for satellite CAL/VAL (e.g. CALIPSO-EARLINET CAL/VAL program). Conform to the statements of ESA’s Ground Segment and Missions Management Dept., RADO is suitable for integration into existing and developing air quality networks such as NDACC-NORS and ESA-PANDORA, supporting the long-term validation of Sentinel-5 Precursor products, but also in view of the future EO missions. RADO is also a good partner for international campaigns, and a regional station for GAW (Global Atmosphere Watch) through GALION (GAW Aerosol Lidar Observation Network).

Based on the quality of the existing infrastructure, expertise and scientific records achieved in only five years, RADO is an ideal candidate for an atmospheric remote sensing centre in Romania, contributing to space EO programs. The mission of this centre (partially fulfilled already) would be to concentrate existing capacities (from research, academia, and private sector) in order to consolidate and diversify the Romanian participation to space programs (e.g. development of inversion algorithms and data processing software, validation of atmospheric composition satellite products, participation to CAL/VAL campaigns, etc.), as well as to identify new niches in space application of the ground-based atmospheric remote sensing data.

Specific objectives of CARESSE:

Create a sustainable high-quality research and training nucleus for atmospheric remote sensing in view of future EOEP-4 missions 

Indicators of achievements:

  • One new equipment operational, for the upgrade of the atmospheric remote sensing infrastructure
  • At least 1.5 Tb of remote sensing data stored
  • Two experienced researchers/engineers  employed, to reinforce the centre human resources
  • One master and one PhD thesis elaborated with the centre’s support (access to infrastructure and data, training, supervision, tutoring)
  • At least one proposal submitted to ESA calls
  • At least one proposal submitted to national and/or international space-related calls

Develop, organize and harmonize existing scientific and technological capacities for space-related applications of atmospheric remote sensing

Indicators of achievements:

  • A medium-term (five years) development plan, updated after each SC meeting
  • At least 3 cooperation agreements elaborated and signed
  • At least 2 working visits for exchange of expertise and know-how

Adjust to the specific requirements of the European Space Agency and strengthen international collaboration

Indicators of achievements:

  • At least 2 meetings attended (ACTRIS, EARLINET and other relevant networks)
  • At least 3  scientific papers submitted to ISI journals
  • At least 5 communications to international conferences
  • At least 1 people trained in using ECOS
  • One IPR plan
  • One Workshop proceedings