Retrieving N2O from nadir-viewing infrared spectrometers

The paper describes and demonstrates a methodology for the physical retrieval of nitrous oxide that uses the spectral radiance measured by the next generation of high-resolution satellite-borne infrared sensors. The performance of the retrieval scheme has been assessed on the basis of numerical exercises. Examples of retrievals based on Interferometric Monitoring of Greenhouse Gases (IMG) spectra measured over the sea surface are given to demonstrate the ability of the scheme to obtain accurate N2O concentration values.