Vertically Resolved Wind Observation Method Comparison and Synergy Assessment

NOAA is evaluating observing system capabilities for its next-generation weather-observing system of systems through its Joint-Venture Partnership. The 3D-Winds Observation Methods Comparison Study that will be described in this presentation was conducted as one part of this study program. This study is an exploration of possibilities for a future state, and not a mission itself. In this study, we compare the expected performance of a set of space-based 3D Wind observation methods to the NOAA/NESDIS-developed summary-level set of wind observation requirements that were provided in the 3D-Winds BAA. The study uses the results of the performance comparison, together with a summary-level assessment of the space-segment resource requirements needed to provide each of these observation capabilities to inform an overall recommended implementation approach to NOAA for 3D-wind observation as a capability within its future observing architecture. In addition, this study evaluates the potential for synergy between these different observing methods. This study evaluates the following 3D-Wind observation methods: Hyperspectral IR Atmospheric Motion Vectors Winds, Stereo IR Atmospheric Motion Vector Winds, Hyperspectral Microwave Atmospheric Motion Vectors Winds, and Aerosol Doppler Wind LIDAR. These observation methods have the potential to address all (or most) of NOAA’s future requirements for vertically resolved horizontal wind observations within the disaggregated LEO observing architecture NOAA envisions for the 2030-2050 time-frame.