Speaker
Description
We present KODIAK (Kolmogorov Observations of Dynamic In-situ Atmospheric Kinematics), a low-SWaP-C atmospheric characterisation instrument that provides high-resolution, in-situ measurements of turbulence, aerosol and molecular composition, and optical transparency. Designed primarily as a UAV-integrated payload, KODIAK enables rapid and flexible atmospheric profiling in environments where fixed instrumentation is impractical or unavailable.
This capability addresses a key challenge in astroparticle physics: reducing atmospheric systematic uncertainties in optical detectors. KODIAK’s primary scientific application is to support the calibration and performance optimisation of the Trinity PeV neutrino observatory, an imaging air Cherenkov telescope designed to detect ultra-high-energy, Earth-skimming neutrinos. Trinity observes the horizon, looking through the lowest and most turbulent layers of the atmosphere, where aerosols, density gradients, and optical variability are strongest. These cumulative atmospheric effects can significantly impact Cherenkov light propagation and event reconstruction.
By delivering real-time, localised atmospheric measurements alongside line-of-sight optical transparency profiles, KODIAK represents a step change in atmospheric monitoring capabilities for next-generation observatories.
We describe the instrument design, measurement principles, and current development status, including results from ground-based prototypes. We also outline planned flight campaigns and discuss broader applications of mobile atmospheric sensing within astronomy, optical communications, and environmental monitoring.