Matthew Watson

My research involves inversion of remotely-sensed data to retrieve physical parameters of volcanic plumes and clouds over several spatial scales, using both ground- and satellite-based techniques. These include ultraviolet (DOAS) and thermal infrared (ASTER) gas spectroscopy, and visible, near infrared (Sun-photometers) and thermal infrared aerosol retrievals (MODIS, AIRS).

My current research includes investigation of SO­2 and SO4­2- retrievals, generation of an aerosol forward model, atmospheric correction of ash retrievals; spectrally independent calibration of SO2 retrievals using TOMS, ASTER, MODIS and AIRS, and the use of the ASTER, MODIS and AIRS in the retrieval of volcanic SO2, SO4­2-, and silicate ash burdens.

Key research interests:

- geoengineering
- Volcanology
- volcanic plumes