In this seminar we will give an overview of state-of-the-art remote sensing instruments and methods, along with the integrated network operation within ACTRIS. Highlighting the AEROPAN project, we outline its objectives, showcase preliminary results, and demonstrate how complementary data from diverse instruments such as photometers, spectrometers and lidars can create a more comprehensive picture about aerosol properties in the atmosphere. Finally, we conclude with an outlook on future developments, emphasizing how enhanced synergies between instruments and networks can lead to a deeper, more unified and consistent understanding of our atmosphere.