Monitoring Atmospheric Composition
A MOOC on the role of satellite and in situ measurements for Atmospheric monitoring.
In this course, we will introduce you to the role of ground and air based in situ data and satellite ‘Earth observation’ (EO) technology in monitoring our atmosphere, and to the informative and critically important data it produces.
This course will provide you with an overview of the different ways in which we monitor the atmosphere and will introduce you to the fundamental techniques and methodologies of working with this data. You will also learn about the ways in which this data is used to inform policy and decision making in attempts to negate and minimise the damage that is being done to our atmosphere.
Significance of this Course
The composition of our planet’s atmosphere is a delicate balance - even the slightest changes could be catastrophic. However this delicate balance is being put under pressure from multiple factors, such as air pollution and the emission of greenhouse gases, which is in turn having a very real and significant impact on our everyday lives. You will learn more about these factors and impacts throughout this course.
What you will learn
- Explore how we observe and measure the atmosphere with satellites, ground-based and other forms of in-situ measurements
- Understand the importance of satellite observations and other forms of measurements for atmospheric monitoring
- Investigate how atmospheric data is used in policy and decision-making, in a range of arenas, in conjunction with models
- Recognise the importance of the data for monitoring long-range transportation of pollutants in the atmosphere
