Transitioning Advanced Satellite Observations into Practical Applications
Improved resolution and icing hazard detection in the Current Icing Potential (CIP) Icing Severity Index following the incorporation of satellite-derived phase and liquid water path measurements.
RAL scientists and engineers are working on a number of projects that involve the acquisition and application of meteorological satellite data to enhance understanding of atmospheric processes and applications. Much of this work is being supported by NASA, through the Advanced Satellite Aviation Weather Products (ASAP) initiative and through a system of competitive grants awarded by NASA’s Applied Sciences Program. The goal of ASAP is to enhance the transition of new and existing satellite information and products into operational products by collaborating with the FAA’s Aviation Weather Research Program (AWRP) Product Development Teams, many of which are based at NCAR. This effort is specifically addressing hazards such as in-flight icing, convective weather, turbulence (clear-air and cloud-induced), volcanic ash, as well as the monitoring of weather in the data-sparse areas over oceans. RAL’s role in ASAP is to coordinate the contributions from participating universities and laboratories with the needs and requirements of the FAA’s aviation weather Product Development Teams and to evaluate the accuracy and usefulness of these advanced satellite products.
FY06 Accomplishments
During 2006 the in-flight icing PDT began testing satellite-based cloud microphysical products produced by NASA Langley and expects to incorporate these new observations into operational icing products for the FAA during 2007. Similarly, RAL scientists are working with UAH and UW-CIMSS to test the utility of satellite-based, high-resolution, early cloud imagery for identifying favorable areas for convective development capable of growing into hazardous storms.