CloudSat Data Processing Center – update on CloudSat data processing and new version 05 products

All of the Level 0, 1, and 2 data products for the CloudSat Mission are produced by the CloudSat Data Processing Center (DPC) at Colorado State University. Data are downlinked from the spacecraft, via the USAF Satellite Communications Network, to the mission command and control center at Kirtland AFB, NM. There the data are decommutated, placed into blocked binary data files, and served to the CloudSat Data Processing Center to be processed to level 0-2 products. These products are then archived, and distributed by the DPC via a web-based data ordering system. This presentation provides details of the CloudSat Cloud Profiling Radar, “Standard” and “Enhanced” data products, and the data processing, archive, and distribution system. An updated schedule will be presented for the release of Version 05 enhanced products (including precipitation and combined CloudSat/CALIPSO products). In addition, an overview is given of web-based user applications that are available for researchers who are interested in finding CPR data for specific case study dates or specific weather patterns or events.