Use of Satellite Data to Improve the Physical Atmosphere in Air Quality Decision Models

1. Use of Satellite Data to Improve the Physical Atmosphere in Air Quality Decision Models Physical Atmosphere Panel Meeting, April 25-26, 2012, Atlanta, GA Over 30 Scientists and Air Managers Attended The physical atmosphere can significantly impact atmospheric chemistry and resulting air quality. Most importantly the physical atmosphere can impact control strategy efficacy and response. Temperature, clouds, mixing heights, humidity and turbulence can all impact sensitivity of control strategies. Clouds can change photolysis rates and biogenic missions Temperatures that are too low will not provide thermal decomposition and understate NOx controls Mixing heights that are too low will overstate sensitivity of emission controls. • Workshop Follow-on Activities • Use of satellite thermal data to evaluate air quality models (CARB and EPA) • Use of satellite data to evaluate model cloud performance (TCEQ and NOAA) • Inclusion of satellite data in Pleim – Xiu boundary layer scheme (EPA)