Microphysical Properties of Mid-latitude Cirrus Clouds Observed with Hydrometeor Videosonde

High-level ice clouds play a complex role in the global energy budget by affecting infrared radiation emitted by the earth’s surface. In order to understand the climate system, it is necessary to increase our knowledge about the microphysical, radiative, and optical properties of cirrus clouds. In situ measurements on microphysical structures of cirrus clouds have been made by using special, high-altitude flying aircraft. Limited studies have been made to date. Two-dimensional optical array probes, which are often used for aircraft measurements of cloud particles, do not have sufficient resolution to discriminate between cloud droplets and ice crystals at sizes smaller than about 100 μm and cannot detect details of crystal habits.