Bridging Data Gaps with NUCAPS and other Satellite Observations: A Collaborative Endeavor between NOAA NWS and NASA SPoRT

The NOAA Unique Combined Atmospheric Processing System (NUCAPS) is an algorithm which processes temperature and moisture information from hyperspectral infrared and microwave sounders (CrIS and ATMS) onboard the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) consisting of the Suomi-NPP (S-NPP), NOAA-20 and most recently, NOAA-21, satellites. This presentation will highlight the transition of NASA’s cutting-edge science and capabilities into NOAA National Weather Service (NWS) operations.

Confronted with data gaps resulting from the absence of nearby upper-air sites, NUCAPS supplements the NWS Cleveland office with critical vertical profiles of temperature and moisture twice a day across the lower Great Lakes. Case studies that were evaluated (including the High Shear Low Cape (HSLC) event on 19 January 2023 and a tornado outbreak on 15 June 2023) highlight NUCAPS' significant role during specific severe events (i.e., improving situational awareness as well as forecasting and warning accuracy). This presentation will highlight the value of incorporating NUCAPS with other satellite observations and ground-based measurements, thereby enhancing the NWS Cleveland office’s operational workflow. The collaborative effort between NASA and the meteorological community represents a data-driven approach to weather forecasting, ultimately strengthening the nation's preparedness for weather-related hazards and enhancing community resilience across the United States.

NOAA-21 reference

"JPSS-2 Has a New Name: NOAA-21". NESDIS. NOAA. 21 November 2022.