Satellite Cloud Retrieval Products and the Advancement to Global 3D Cloud Data Construction

Many different level-2 cloud retrieval products using NOAA Enterprise Cloud Algorithms are currently available from GOES-R and JPSS satellites, including Cloud Top Height (CTH), Cloud Base Height (CBH), Cloud Cover Layers (CCL), etc. Previous validation efforts have shown that these products meet the program requirements in relation to surface observations and other space-borne active sensors. Interacting with users to foster the use of satellite cloud data for various weather applications, we introduced cloud vertical cross-sections by combining multiple cloud products with supplementary data. We are expanding this research effort to construct global 3D cloud data. These cloud products are produced from geostationary satellite sensors with different spatial and temporal resolutions (currently GOES-16, GOES-18, Himawari-9, Meteosat-10, and Meteosat-9). To promote uniformity in these multi-sensor products, blending techniques are used to produce 3D cloud data on 40 vertical levels at a 500-m interval. Transitioning from basic linear blending techniques to more complex methods is explored to allow a more seamless boundary between sensors depending on each sensor’s spectral coverage, spatial resolution, temporal resolution, and sensor zenith angle. Validation and code optimization efforts continue to improve the 3D global data processing. The addition of polar orbiting satellites and new satellites such as GOES-19 and Meteosat Third Generation into this processing is also an ongoing effort, along with continued validation of each sensor’s cloud products. This talk will highlight current accomplishments and continuing work in the construction of satellite-based global 3D cloud data.