Comparing OMI‐TOMS and OMI‐DOAS total ozone column data

The Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) project team uses two total ozone retrieval algorithms in order to maintain the long‐term record established with Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS) data as well as to improve the ozone column estimate using the hyperspectral capability of OMI. The purpose of this study is to assess where the algorithms produce comparable results and where the differences are significant. Starting with the same set of Earth reflectance data, the total ozone data used in this study have been derived using OMI‐TOMS and OMI–Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) algorithms. OMI‐TOMS is based on the TOMS version 8 algorithm that has been used to process TOMS data taken since November 1978. The OMI‐DOAS retrieval algorithm was developed specifically for OMI. It takes advantage of the hyperspectral feature of the OMI instrument to reduce errors due to aerosols, clouds, surface, and sulfur dioxide from volcanic eruptions. The OMI‐DOAS algorithm also has improved correction for cloud height. The mean differences in the ozone column derived from the two algorithms vary from 0 to 9 DU (0–3%), and their correlation coefficients vary between 0.89 and 0.99 with latitude and season. The largest differences occur in the polar regions and over clouds. Some of the differences are due to stray light, dark current, and other instrumental errors that have been corrected in the new version of the OMI radiance/irradiance data set (collection 3). Other differences are algorithmic. OMI‐DOAS algorithmic errors identified through this analysis are also being corrected in collection 3 reprocessing. However, for consistency with the long‐term TOMS record, OMI‐TOMS collection 3 data will still be based on the TOMS V8 algorithm. Preliminary analysis shows much better agreement in the two total ozone data sets after reprocessing. Reprocessed collection 3 data from both algorithms will be available before the end of 2007. Continuing the TOMS total ozone column data record that dates back to November 1978 is the primary OMI mission goal that is achievable with either OMI total ozone column data product.