Correction for distortions in lidar measurements of cloud backscattering phase matrices caused by multiple scattering

Interpretation of data of atmospheric laser sensing is based on the lidar equation valid for single scattering. However, investigations of dense aerosol formations call for consideration of multiple scattering. In the present paper, a method of correcting the light backscattering phase matrix (BSPM) measured in cloud depth, where the lidar signal is formed not only by single scattering but also by multiple scattering, is discussed. A data correction algorithm is based on the property of BSPM symmetry, double scattering approximation for lidar return description, and simplified polarized radiation transfer equations for anisotropic scattering media used to calculate the depolarization profile of lidar response from cloud depth. Results of calculating the polarization degree of double scattering lidar returns from homogeneous clouds are presented. The possibility of reconstructing the microstructure parameters for water-drop and crystal clouds from the polarization degree of double scattering lidar return by means of changing the polarization state of sensing radiation is demonstrated.