A very interesting paper has been recently published in ACP about the atmospheric aerosol characterization for North Africa, Northeastern Atlantic, Mediterranean and Middle East. This work is based on the analysis of quality-assured direct-sun observations of 39 stations of the AErosol RObotic NETwork (AERONET). Its main objectives are two: to discriminate different aerosol types and to quantify the contribution of mineral dust. Large mineral dust is found to be the most important constituent in Northern Africa and Middle East. Under specific meteorological conditions, its transport to Southern Europe is observed from spring to autumn and decreasing with latitude.
More information in:
http://www.atmos-chem-phys.org/9/8265/2009/acp-9-8265-2009.html