The aerosol scattering phase function (ASPF), a crucial element of aerosol optical properties, is pivotal for radiative forcing calculations and aerosol remote sensing detection. Current detection methods for the ASPF include multi-sensor detection, single-sensor rotational detection and imaging detection. However, these methods face challenges in achieving high-resolution full-angle measurement, particularly for small forward (i.e., less than 10 degrees) or backward (i.e., more than 170 degrees) scattering angles in open path. In this work, a full-angle ASPF detection system based on the multi-field-of-view Scheimpflug lidar technique has been proposed and demonstrated. A 450 nm continuous-wave semiconductor laser was utilized as the light source and four CMOS image sensors were employed as detectors. To detect the full-angle ASPF, four receiving units capture angular scattering signals across different angle ranges, namely 0 degrees-20 degrees, 10 degrees-96 degrees, 84 degrees-170 degrees, 160 degrees-180 degrees, respectively. The influence of the relative illumination and angular response of the used image sensors have been corrected, and a signal stitching algorithm was developed to obtain a complete 0-180 degrees angular scattering signal. Atmospheric measurements have been conducted by employing the full-angle ASPF detection system in open path. The experimental results of the ASPF have been compared with the AERONET data from the Socheongcho station and simulated ASPF based on the typical aerosol models in mainland China, showing excellent agreement. The promising results demonstrated in this work have shown a great potential for detecting the full-angle ASPF in open path.

Purpose of ReviewCalculating atmospheric aerosol radiative forcing is a crucial aspect of climate change research. The aerosol scattering phase function stands out as a vital parameter for radiative forcing computations and holds significant importance in the remote sensing retrievals of aerosols. Despite its significance, research on aerosol scattering phase function measurements has been limited over the years. This review article provides a comprehensive summary of relevant studies on the measurements of aerosol scattering phase functions.Recent FindingsIn recent times, the application of imaging detection techniques in the measurement of aerosol scattering phase functions has emerged, highlighting advantages such as portability and high temporal-angular resolution. In addition, the development of aerosol retrieval algorithms facilitates a broader application of the results obtained from aerosol scattering phase function measurements in estimating aerosol physical properties and satellite retrievals.SummaryThis review introduces the measurement techniques, instruments, and retrieval algorithms associated with aerosol scattering phase functions, encompassing laboratory experiments, in situ field measurements, and remote sensing retrieval. The measurement results and related research on aerosol morphological effects and physical property retrievals have been summarized. Finally, it outlines future research prospects, suggesting improvements in instruments, experimental expansion, and enhanced data analysis and application, providing feasible suggestions for further studies.