Dual-Polarization Ceilometer – Vaisala CL61

June 12, 2025

The Vaisala CL61 is an advanced, dual-polarization ceilometer that goes beyond standard cloud base detection by offering detailed atmospheric profiling, including aerosol and cloud phase discrimination.

Key Specifications:

  • Laser Wavelength: 910.55 nm
  • Reporting Range: 0 – 15.4 km
  • Vertical Resolution: 4.8 m
  • Cloud Layers Detected: Up to 5
  • Aerosol Layers Detected: Up to 3

This high-end LiDAR-based ceilometer provides depolarization profiles, enabling precise identification of cloud phase (liquid vs. ice) and detection of aerosol types, including dust and volcanic ash. Such capabilities enhance situational awareness for both meteorological research and operational forecasting.

The depolarization feature is particularly valuable for:

  • Differentiating solid, liquid, or mixed-phase clouds
  • Identifying and tracking aerosol layers
  • Improving data assimilation in Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP)
  • Supporting aviation safety and nowcasting

Equipped with enhanced single-lens optics, the CL61 offers an improved signal-to-noise ratio, enabling high-resolution backscatter profiling even under challenging atmospheric conditions. Its rugged, automated design ensures reliable, unattended operation across all weather scenarios. The CL61 represents the latest in remote sensing instrumentation, combining advanced optics, polarization capability, and data-ready outputs in a cost-effective platform.

For more technical details, visit: Vaisala CL61 Ceilometer Product Page

 

Figure 2. Dual-Polarization Ceilometer – Vaisala CL61.