NATALI (QA4EO NATALI) was implemented between March 2014 and September 2016 with funding from the European Space Agency (ESA) under the Romanian Industry Incentive Scheme and the ESA/SPPA QA4EO activities. The project aimed to advance atmospheric observations to improve the understanding of aerosol–cloud interactions, evaluate atmospheric model performance, and enhance initial conditions for data assimilation.
NATALI focused on the use of advanced remote-sensing instruments, particularly lidars, to characterize aerosols and clouds. It leveraged continental-scale, quality-assured lidar networks such as EARLINET, combined with sun–sky photometry from AERONET stations, to provide extensive spatial and temporal coverage of aerosol properties. The project also connected ground-based observations with satellite-based active remote sensing missions including CALIPSO, ADM-Aeolus, and EarthCARE.
A key innovation of NATALI was the application of Artificial Neural Networks to classify aerosols based on optical data from multiwavelength Raman lidars and advanced aerosol models. This approach improved the interpretation of lidar measurements, supporting more accurate assessment of aerosol properties and their effects on cloud microphysics, radiation, precipitation, and the hydrological cycle.
Find more information on the official website: natali.inoe.ro