Colloquium
Retrieval of Dust Optical Properties in the UV-vis-NIR

Abstract

Constraining dust optical properties is essential for interpreting remote sensing observations of planetary atmospheres and surfaces, as well as for understanding the radiative impact of aerosols in climate and circulation models. In this talk, I will present recent advances in the retrieval and experimental characterization of dust optical properties across the ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared wavelengths. Our approach combines laboratory measurements with advanced light-scattering modeling to determine wavelength dependent complex refractive indices and other key parameters such as single-scattering albedos, cross sections, and efficiencies. Three Martian dust analogues were analyzed, each prepared with narrow particle size distributions representative of airborne dust in the Martian atmosphere. Particular attention was given to the effects of particle shape, composition, and size on the derived optical properties. The resulting validated optical property database covers wavelengths from 200 to 2000 nm and provides a physically consistent foundation for radiative transfer modeling. These results offer improved constraints for interpreting spacecraft and ground based observations of planetary materials and contribute to the broader understanding of dust scattering behavior in planetary environments.