The Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET)

AERONET (Aerosol Robotic Network) is an international system of ground-based instruments that measure airborne particles like dust, pollution, and smoke. These instruments, called sun photometers, analyze how sunlight is scattered and absorbed by aerosols in the atmosphere. The data collected helps scientists understand air quality, aerosol sources, and their impact on climate and weather. By providing accurate, long-term measurements from many locations worldwide, AERONET supports research and decision-making related to environmental health and climate change.