HIT Media (Wang Chenyang, School of Electrical Engineering and Automation / text)
A paper co-authored by Professor Yang Dazhi of the School of Electrical Engineering and Automation at Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) and Doctor Christian A. Gueymard, former senior advisor at the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory, titled Worldwide validation of CAMS and MERRA-2 reanalysis aerosol optical depth products using 15 years of AERONET observations, received the 2025 Haagen-Smit Prize. It was the only paper worldwide to be selected for the prize that year.
The paper focuses on validating aerosol optical depth (AOD) data on a global scale, providing a reliable reference for selecting data sources in regions where ground-based observations are limited. To address the lack of in-situ data in many parts of the world, Professor Yang's team carried out a detailed evaluation and altitude correction of two major reanalysis datasets: CAMS from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) and MERRA-2 from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Using data from 793 AERONET stations worldwide – around 1.8 million valid observations – the study produced detailed regional and global comparisons, offering practical guidance for researchers and policymakers in selecting appropriate data sources at different scales.
Anthony S. Wexler, distinguished professor at the University of California (Davis campus), and chair of the Selection Committee, highlighted the significance of the paper in his remarks. The committee noted that the cited study has strong global relevance, particularly for regions lacking ground-based observations, and praised its rigorous approach to data quality. It also noted that the paper has made it easier for researchers worldwide to use its data and code in further research.
The Haagen-Smit Prize, named after air pollution research pioneer Arie Jan Haagen-Smit, recognizes papers published in Atmospheric Environment over the past decade that have had a significant impact on the field. Only one or two papers are selected worldwide each year, making it one of the most prestigious international awards in atmospheric and environmental science.
Link to the award announcement: https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/atmospheric-environment/about/haagen-smit-prize/haagen-smit-prize-2025-winner-announcement
Editors: Shang Yankai, Yang Wenyu
Reviewed by: Song Ling, Li Shoubin