Lidar Ceilometer CL61

Data-rich vertical profiles

See more than ever before — when it matters most. CL61 uses attenuated backscatter profiles measured in 2 polarization directions to calculate the depolarization ratio. The depolarization measurement not only enables the liquid/solid differentiation, but also makes it possible to detect dust, sand and volcanic ash. Improved optical system allows high signal to noise ratio and enables reporting of detailed vertical profiles for the full range, up to 15.4 km (9.6 mi).

Trusted technology

With Vaisala, our technology is proven and backed by decades of experience in ceilometer development. With the CL61 single-lens technology, traceable calibration, depolarization, and ultrapure profiles, you receive accurate, research-grade data and professional support to improve your forecasting.

Cost-effective

Even with its new depolarization measurement, the CL61 lidar ceilometer comes in at a fraction of a cost compared to other research lidars. Its low price point allows for the option to deploy multiple instruments in order to improve measurement coverage.

Low maintenance

The CL61 sensor is simple to set up, and operates autonomously any time, without the need for calibration. Rely on uninterrupted depolarization profiling and data around the clock, and in all weather conditions.

Understand the threat*

affected globally by sand & dust storms (That's approximately 4% of the globe's population) of dust emitted annually (That's the equivalent of 307 Great Pyramids of Giza.) * World Meteorological Organization, Sand and dust storms, 2025

Detect early, act fast

Vaisala Forward scatter sensor FD70Detects sand/dust vs. water-based particles Reduces false alerts with precise visibility data Vaisala lidar ceilometer CL61Identifies sand/dust layers through depolarization Tracks storm movement for early warnings Vaisala WindCube® Scan360°/3D wind and aerosol tracking up to 10 km Enables storm trajectory monitoring

Build resilience

Combine sensors for full situational awareness and enable proactive decisions to protect people, assets, and operations.