Dr. Sunilkumar Kudilil | Visiting Research Scientist, University of California, Riverside 

Time: 2:00 PM — 3:00 PM

Date: Monday, June 15, 2026

Location: Hybrid, CE-CERT RM 105 & Zoom (Join Zoom Meeting ID: 92301867487; Passcode:  611524)

Title: Atmospheric Aerosols: From Balloon Observations and Aircraft Emissions to Free- Space Optical Communication.

Abstract: In this talk, I will present an integrated view of how atmospheric aerosols, particularly absorbing black carbon particles, influence optical propagation and free-space optical communication link performance. I will begin by introducing the basic physics of FSO systems, the role of optical turbulence, and the additional impact of aerosol loading on signal attenuation, scintillation, and link reliability. I will then discuss field experiments based on high-altitude balloon-borne observations of black carbon, where elevated BC layers were observed in the upper troposphere, particularly near aircraft cruise altitudes. These observations will be examined in relation to aircraft emissions, possible vertical transport pathways, and the radiative and optical significance of absorbing aerosol layers. Finally, I will briefly discuss marine aerosols as a future research direction, highlighting their potential influence on laser beam propagation in coastal and oceanic communication environments.

Bio: Sunilkumar Kudilil is a research scientist specializing in atmospheric science and optical beam propagation, with a focus on how aerosols and atmospheric turbulence affect optical signals and communication systems. His work bridges communication engineering and atmospheric science, aiming to improve our understanding of atmospheric processes and their implications for emerging optical technologies. Before joining UCR, he served as a Project Scientist at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, India, where he played a key role in designing scientific payloads for high-altitude balloon experiments to measure atmospheric aerosols in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere. In parallel, he investigated aircraft emissions and their impacts on the atmospheric radiative energy balance, contributing to a more refined understanding of anthropogenic influences in the upper atmosphere.