Assessment of aerosol-cloud-precipitation interactions using polarimetric radar observations and comprehensive cloud-resolving models

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Aerosol-cloud-precipitation interactions are fundamental processes in the climate system which are perturbed by anthropogenic emissions and thus exert a climate forcing. The large uncertainties with respect to this forcing are a main reason why no better projectsion of future climate change even for given emission scenarios are possible. New data both for observations- and modelling may now enable a better process understanding. In the planned project collaboration we will in particular exploit new networks of polarimetric radar in Germany (operated by the German Weather Service) and in the USA in terms of observations, and a data set of simulations with a large-eddy model with detailed cloud- and precipitation microphysics and aerosol-cloud interactions for a broad range of cloud regimes in terms of modelling. The partner institute NASA-Goddard Institute for Space Studies is in an internationally leading position with respect to both fields. This expertise that examines the process level is complemented by the expertise at Universität Leipzig in terms of the analysis of global data (satellite data) and modelling (climate modelling).