Satellite-based intensity estimates of tropical cyclones: where do we go in the future?

Several programs of next-generation meteorological satellites and the associated instruments are at various stages of development and implementation. These satellites should provide increased spatial and temporal resolution for observations of tropical cyclones (TCs), as well as including new radiative frequencies. How can these developments be employed in the satellite intensity estimates of TCs that are a fundamental part of forecasting operations? There are many possible options, including: 1) extension of current techniques such as Dvorak beyond the standard visible and infrared imagery, 2) developing current techniques to take advantage of the upcoming improvements in resolution, 3) development of entirely new algorithms for correlating cloud patterns to TC intensity, 4) increased use of consensus techniques that account for the strengths and weaknesses of the individual component techniques, and 5) development of integrated techniques that would provide 3-D structures to be assimilated into numerical weather prediction models.