Exploring the utility of CRTM in assimilating clear and cloudy radiances for forecast model initialization

The Community Radiative Transfer Model (CRTM) has been developed by the US Joint Center for Satellite Data Assimilation (JCSDA). CRTM's purpose is to promote satellite data usage in data assimilation systems and be a type of proving ground for different algorithms.

We confirmed that CRTM version 1.2 is reasonably accurate for radiance simulations addressing most GOES imager infrared channels as well as several AVHRR microwave channels. In March 2010, CRTM was updated to version 2.0. Version 2 expands the model to include visible sensor capability in addition to those already in place. We are studying GOES-12 and AVHRR/3 simulated imagery of storm events on 12-14 June 2002 during the International H2O Project (IHOP) field campaign. Current focus examines cloud microphysics, land/water surface conditions, ozone vertical profiles and more. Furthermore, we are validating the CRTM K-matrix function using manually computed radiance gradients (or Jacobians). The confirmation of CRTM capabilities provides the foundation for research in cloudy satellite radiance data assimilation

This presentation will demonstrate work in progress to facilitate the real-time assimilation of clear/non-clear satellite radiances and coupling this with forecast models.