Ground-based networks for profiling the Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL) are at the core of PROBE. Within the last decade, we have seen a rapid development of a variety of different networks, in Europe as well as worldwide. The role of PROBE is to not only to inform the public and the science community about these networks, but also to act as a mediator between the network initiatives. This mediator role should lead to a harmonized use of the same instruments in different networks and to a fruitful knowledge exchange.

• Provide an overview of existing ABL networks
• Communicate how to access networks, data, algorithms, and the scientific communities
• Illustrate the benefits of being part of the networks
• Describe relevant network instruments and pursue network-applicable software, calibration, QA/QC & retrieval developments
• Draft standard operation procedures (SOPs) for network instruments
• Demonstrate network capability & distribution of data in near-real-time
• Show the current and future impact of the developing networks for science and society

To fulfill the objectives, WG3 and WG4 consult and communicate with instrument manufacturers, national and European weather institutions (e.g. EUMETNET E-PROFILE), research infrastructures (e.g. ACTRIS) and environmental agencies for universal solutions. Links with the WMO community (WMO Paris RDP, WWRP DAOS) and with international observational campaigns (FESSTVaL) have been established.

Currently, the following task groups are coordinating research on networks and their  instruments.