Leading Role of KIT in Cloud Observation KIT Researchers Set Up and Manage the Topical Center CIS for Direct Measurement of Cloud Properties – Part of the European Research Infrastructure ACTRIS At KIT’s AIDA cloud simulation chamber, researchers study how clouds influence the climate. (Photo: Markus Breig) Clouds play an important role in the Earth’s climate system. Based on Europe-wide measurements, the topical center CIS will create a broad database to better understand the influence of cloud properties on climate. The multinational consortium led by Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is part of the European research infrastructure ACTRIS for long-term observation of aerosols, clouds, and trace gases.