EARLINET is a voluntary association of research institutions which shares scientific expertise and data. As part of the EARLINET community, each member benefits from continuous exchange / transfer of expertise, direct access to technological developments, intense scientific and technical training, support in accessing funds and, generally, a well-established reputation of high quality research. Although no funds are provided directly, collaboration within common research projects is encouraged. EARLINET has been involved over the years in several network-wide projects (EARLINET, EARLINET-ASOS, ACTRIS, ACTRIS-2) and numerous multi-lateral projects, which supported us to improve both as a distributed research infrastructure, and as an expert scientific forum.
Among the EARLINET members, lidar stations are of specific importance, through their contribution to the collection of atmospheric data, advancement of aerosol research and lidar technology. Lidars used by EARLINET are not standardized instruments moreover they are continuously upgraded to improve the quantity and the quality of the measured parameters. To cope with this diversity, a complex quality assurance program was developed and implemented.
Because of the constant dealing with significant dynamics, EARLINET can only afford to embrace active members, i.e. those who contribute systematically to the scientific and technical objectives. If you want to become an EARLINET lidar station, you have to consider an average 2-years period to accommodate to the rules described below. Although the efforts made during the integration process are significant, you will acknowledge that the number of benefits is much higher.
1) Representation of all the EARLINET members to the annual General Assembly is mandatory. This is the most important EARLINET event, although participation to specific workshops and technical sessions may be of great importance especially for new members. You have to use your own funds for travel.
2) As part of the quality assurance program, all lidars operated by EARLINET stations must have open access to be fully characterized, starting from the components level.
3) EARLINET provides to all members full access to documentation, tools, technical developments etc., which are generally described in the “EARLINET internals” section of the website. A username and a password will be provided to the PI (see instructions bellow).
4) Each station has to:
Monday, local noon
Monday, local sunset
Thursday, local sunset
Send a Letter of interest to the EARLINET Council (EARLINET Council), using the template reported below together with detailed guidelines. You should: