Innovative Atmospheric Motion Vector Products from VIIRS: Expanding Beyond the Use of a Single Channel and Satellite.

In current Atmospheric Motion Vector (AMV) operations, the VIIRS infrared (IR) channel data is utilized from only a single satellite. To maximize the usefulness of VIIRS winds for improving weather forecasts, the complete suite of JPSS platforms (S-NPP, NOAA-20 and 21) can be utilized in tandem to develop IR AMVs that have increased spatial coverage as both satellites follow similar orbital paths. Furthermore, this reduces the time interval between images used to track targets significantly, leading to an improved wind product. Validation results compared to rawinsondes and a model impact study will show this.

The focus of this presentation will be the use of a triplet of VIIRS orbits from two satellites over the polar regions, where coverage does not change as much between successive overpasses. To expand coverage more equatorward, where a triplet of orbits cannot be used, a test period of tandem VIIRS IR AMVs was created using a novel method of Quality Control (QC) that expands coverage into mid- and low-latitudes with the use of only two overpasses (duplet). Initial results from this test period will be shown.

In addition, two new products will be discussed that expand on the information obtained from the VIIRS IR channel alone: the Short-Wave IR (SWIR) and Day-Night-Band (DNB) AMVs. Examples will be presented with initial validation results compared to rawinsondes.

In summary, it is vital to maximize the VIIRS data for AMV production beyond a single satellite and a single channel. To maximize the impact of VIIRS winds, we need to be innovative. This includes using multiple satellites with the same instrument (VIIRS) and in similar orbits and utilizing more channels that can offset limitations in the VIIRS IR wind product.