ER-2 and the P-3 performed their last science flights on September 22, 24, 25, and 27. Again, multiple transects under, within, and above the distinct layers of low clouds and elevated biomass burning aerosols (i.e. soot) above the Atlantic were observed with both aircrafts to study their properties along spatial gradients.
On September 27, the P-3 acquired science data on its way to the Ascension Island. It will continue on September 28 to Barbados before it returns to the US on September 29.
Cloud droplet size retrieval using AirMSPI data acquired on Sunday, September 18. This example is unique with the two different cloud regimes. We performed retrievals for both parts of the image and found different cloud microphysical properties. Initial comparisons show agreement with colocated in-situ samples from the P-3.
Examples of APR-3 Observations in ORACLES: September 20 contrast of drizzling (above) and non-precipitating (below) marine StratoCumulus in two different portions of the same deck. Aerosol measurement instruments indicated significantly different aerosol conditions.