Description:

Ice clouds are a key component of tropical climate and have extensive coverage in that region. Ice microphysics and optical properties alter the lifetime of these clouds and thus their radiative effects and precipitation efficiency. These same small-scale uncertainties are involved in satellite retrievals of the macrostructure of these clouds. This session welcomes studies of both the macro- and microproperties of tropical ice clouds using in-situ and remote sensing observations as well as high-resolution models, particularly studies with an eye toward the climatic impacts of tropical cirrus.