Validation of GOME (ERS-2) NO2 vertical column data with ground-based measurements at Issyk-Kul (Kyrgyzstan)

Here we present the results of comparison between operational NO2 vertical column data by Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment (GOME) onboard ERS-2 satellite and ground-based measurements at Issyk-Kul station in Kyrgyzstan, northern Tien Shan. The data of GOME, taken for the period of 1996–2002, was found to be reasonably close to the results of ground-based sunrise measurements. The latter were adjusted to the time of GOME overpass nearby noon, providing direct comparison between satellite and ground-based data. According to the results, there is 0.6 × 1015 mol/cm2 (∼18%) overestimation of NO2 vertical column by GOME, compared to our ground-based data.