Articles | Volume 24, issue 24
https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-13913-2024
https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-13913-2024
Research article
 | 
16 Dec 2024
Research article |  | 16 Dec 2024

The potential of drone observations to improve air quality predictions by 4D-Var

Hassnae Erraji, Philipp Franke, Astrid Lampert, Tobias Schuldt, Ralf Tillmann, Andreas Wahner, and Anne Caroline Lange

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Cited articles

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Short summary
Four-dimensional variational data assimilation allows for the simultaneous optimisation of initial values and emission rates by using trace-gas profiles from drone observations in a regional air quality model. Assimilated profiles positively impact the representation of air pollutants in the model by improving their vertical distribution and ground-level concentrations. This case study highlights the potential of drone data to enhance air quality analyses including local emission evaluation.
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