Article

First Cloud measurements within CAINA

Eemshaven, 16.04.2025 – Birgit Wehner

Flights 6 and 7 finally brought the long-awaited clouds

On 14 April, cumulus clouds were already visible in our measurement area in the morning, initially only with an 2/8 degree of coverage. During the course of the day, the coverage increased, but without the risk of the sky becoming completely overcast.

Therefore, we were finally able to take two cloud flights, during which the first two samples of cloud water were taken, cloud microphysics were measured and particle peaks at cloud edges were observed. In both flights, ACTOS was able to measure in the upper cloud regions at altitudes of about 1300 to 1600 m, which was often near the 0°C boundary.

The result was 2 ml and 6.5 ml of cloud water, which are already at the University of Groningen for chemical analysis. Thus, a very successful measurement day could be concluded. Unfortunately, the following days do not look promising for good flight weather again.