Units

Spectroscopy, Quantum Chemistry and Atmospheric Remote Sensing

The ''Service de Chimie quantique et Photophysique'' (previously ''Service de Chimie Physique Moléculaire'') is active in the field of physical chemistry. The research focuses on the internal structure of atoms and molecules and their related reactivity. We interrogate species using light and perform high resolution spectroscopic experiments with Fourier transform interferometers and lasers. We simultaneously calculate their properties using computers with ab initio time dependent and independent methods. We are most concerned by the role the species we investigate play in Earth's atmospheric processes, and in other planetary and stellar atmospheres as well as in the interstellar space. Besides the development and use of state-of-the-art experimental and theoretical investigation means in the laboratory, we participate to remote sensing satellite missions and perform ground based validation measurements. Theoretical modeling results from both our laboratory and remote sensing activities. Our research activities are detailed under the following three main themes: 1. Experimental Molecular Chemical Physics 2. Quantum Chemistry and Atomic Physics 3. Spectroscopy of the Atmosphere

Projetcs

Atmospheric composition measurements by infrared spectroscopy from satellites

Monitoring of the atmosphere and study of its composition change, from analysis of remote sensing satellite observations using infrared spectroscopy. Design of future satellite missions dedicated to the monitoring of the climate system, the study of chemical species related to the depletion of Antarctic ozone, and the study of pollution at local and global scales. Participation to the following missions: ACE, MOPITT, TES, and IASI, and scientific expertise for future missions in the EU GMES context (CNES, ESA, Eumetsat).