Unraveling Urban vs. Wildfire Influences in Aerosol Properties over Thailand during Airborne and Satellite Investigation of Asian Air Quality (ASIA-AQ) Campaign
SAYANTEE ROY, Elizabeth Wiggins, Francesca Gallo, Michael Shook, Josh DiGangi, Glenn Diskin, Carolyn Jordan, Edward Winstead, Viphada Boonlerd, Luke Ziemba, Richard Moore, NASA Langley
Abstract Number: 314
Working Group: Carbonaceous Aerosols
Abstract
The NASA Airborne and Satellite Investigation of Asian Air Quality (ASIA-AQ) flight campaign conducted in February and March 2024 aimed to enhance understanding of air quality dynamics and pollution transport in Southeast Asia. Utilizing a multi-perspective approach combining aircraft, satellite, and ground-based data, the campaign focused on major cities in the Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, and Taiwan. The deployment of the NASA DC-8 aircraft facilitated real-time measurements of aerosol properties, trace gases, and meteorological parameters. This study presents a comprehensive characterization of aerosol microphysical, chemical, and optical properties, along with gaseous composition, in two contrasting locations within Thailand: Chiang Mai and Bangkok. Chiang Mai, known for heavy biomass burning from forest fires and agricultural waste burning during the dry season (February-April), contrasts with Bangkok's urban pollution sources. In this study, analysis of particle number size distribution (PNSD) and optical properties are utilized to distinguish between urban and wildfire influences, with gaseous constituents serving as markers for biomass burning emissions. The results highlight distinct signatures of aerosol properties and gaseous composition indicative of biomass burning in Chiang Mai, contrasting with urban pollution characteristics observed in Bangkok. Further, the analysis integrates meteorological data to assess the influence of local conditions and potential pollution transport pathways, contributing to a holistic understanding of air quality dynamics in the region. The findings from this study not only enhance knowledge of local air quality but also highlights broader discussions on regional pollution impacts, thus, facilitating informed decision-making for air quality management strategies and improving air quality in the region.