Improvement of the retrieval algorithm for GOSAT SWIR XCO_2 and XCH_4 and their validation using TCCON data

The column-averaged dry-air mole fractions of carbon dioxide and methane (XCO_2 and XCH_4) have been retrieved from Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite (GOSAT) Short-Wavelength InfraRed (SWIR) observations and released as a SWIR L2 product from the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES). XCO_2 and XCH_4 retrieved using the version 01.xx retrieval algorithm showed large negative biases and standard deviations (−8.85 and 4.75 ppm for XCO_2 and −20.4 and 18.9 ppb for XCH_4, respectively) compared with data of the Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON). Multiple reasons for these error characteristics (e.g., solar irradiance database, handling of aerosol scattering) are identified and corrected in a revised version of the retrieval algorithm (version 02.xx). The improved retrieval algorithm shows much smaller biases and standard deviations (−1.48 and 2.09 ppm for XCO_2 and −5.9 and 12.6 ppb for XCH_4, respectively) than the version 01.xx. Also, the number of post-screened measurements is increased, especially at northern mid- and high-latitudinal areas