Assessing a Cloud Optical Depth Retrieval Algorithm with Model-Generated Data and the Frozen Turbulence Assumption

Abstract A cloud optical depth retrieval algorithm that utilizes time series of solar irradiance and zenith downwelling radiance data collected at a fixed surface site is assessed using model-generated cloud fields and simulated radiation measurements. To date, the retrieval algorithm has only been assessed using instantaneous cloud fields in which time series were mimicked via the frozen turbulence assumption. In this study, …