Useful Algorithms to Derive the Optical Properties of Clouds from a Back-scatter Lidar Return

The main algorithms for back-scatter lidar equation inversion have been studied and compared in order to find the most appropriate methods for cloud optical parameter determination. Two efficient and complementary methods have been selected: Platt's method is used for optically thick clouds, while a new method, named the back-slope method, is used for optically thin clouds. The two methods can determine an average back-scatter-to-extinction ratio, the optical depth, and the back-scatter and extinction coefficients for clouds.