Development of a Fast Solar Tracker Enabling Atmospheric Direct Sun Remote Sensing Applications on Different Moving Platforms

• DOI: 10.5194/egusphere-egu2020-9596
• Publication Date: 2020-03-09T20:40:57Z
• Authors: Ralph Kleinschek; Julian Kostinek; Philip Holzbeck; Marvin Knapp; Andreas Luther; Frank Hase; André Butz
• Keywords: Tracking (education); Imaging spectrometer; Solar tracker

<p>Spectroscopic direct sun remote sensing of the atmosphere offers an essential tool for validation models and satellite observations as well monitoring emissions. Validation missions greenhouse gas satellites are to improve performances products, thereby gaining a better understanding dynamics between sources sinks. Furthermore, ozone-depleting substances is vital contribution observe progress in restoring ozone layer. A high tracking precision particular measuring CO<sub>2</sub> CH<sub>4</sub> columns required. We aim accuracy than 0.05°.</p><p>This work presents development compact reliable stand-alone tracker mobile applications. The camera-based has two modes. In first mode, image processing using fish-eye lens with field view 185° entire hemisphere above instrument calculates coarse position sun. On reaching this position, other system takes over centers projection fast response times (100 Hz control loop). compatible different kinds spectrometers like grating Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). also suitable platforms cars, ships, or stratospheric balloons. </p><p>During CoMet (Carbon Dioxide Methane Misson 2018) campaign, performed stop go manner on car-mounted setup. every stop, was able autonomously find regardless relative vehicle. For MORE-2 (Measuring Ocean REferences 2) campaign onboard research vessel Pacific ocean, allowed 99 % time high-precision retrievals EM27/SUN FTIR. Based lessons learned during campaigns, further improved version flying balloon August 2020 development. </p>