Comparative analysis of satellite and continuous surface measurements of gas impurities in the air basin at the Listvyanka station, Lake Baikal

This study demonstrates a comparative analysis of surface and satellite measurements. The average concentrations of PM_2.5 and CO, SO₂, measured at the Listvyanka station located on the coast of Lake Baikal, were considered. Satellite measurements data (Copernicus Sentinel-5P) were recomputed based on the SILAM model. A joint analysis of data showed that satellite measurements were suitable for a spatial description of regional air pollution. The computed maxima coincided with the surface measurements in terms of time periods and general monitoring results. However, at extreme increases in concentrations of pollutants, a significant difference in the numerical values was registered. Satellite monitoring data confirmed the relationship between the increase in PM_2.5 and CO concentrations in the air basin at the Listvyanka station and the transfer of smoke plumes from intense forest fires located at a distance of 1,500 – 2,000 km.