Abstract:

The preliminary studies made over the Baltic Sea indicate that both horizontal and vertical physical properties of aerosols vary
seasonally and in short periods of time. The average monthly values of the aerosol optical thickness derived using the lidar
confirm suitability of this method to measure the optical parameters of the atmosphere above the seas. The Baltic aerosol
composition changes over short periods of time, and aerosol properties depend on many factors, concerned with different particle
origins. Additionally, aerosol particle direct and indirect radiative effects have been identified as key uncertainties for the
prediction of the future global climate.