Ground validation efforts at Howard University's Beltsville campus for NASAs Global Precipitation Measurement mission

The purpose of this preliminary study is to analyze microphysical characteristics of precipitating storms and thereby contribute to NASAs Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) ground validation mission at Howard University's Beltsville Campus. On a per storm basis, drop size distributions will be obtained at the surface with a Joss-Waldvogel disdrometer and up to a height of 4 km with an MDE-915 vertical profiler. In addition, storm types and precipitation yields will be determined with an ER-2 Doppler Radar and aerosol measurements will be obtained using a LIDAR. The drop size distributions will be analyzed in the context of aerosols and storm type (i.e. convective and stratiform). Calibration of the vertical profiler with the Joss-Waldvogel disdrometer and subsequently of the Doppler Radar with the vertical profiler will also be an integral part of the study. Together, both calibration and analysis aspects of the study will hopefully lead to improved relationships between radar reflectivity and estimated surface rainfall rate for NASAs ground validation strategy.

ADDRESS, E-MAIL AND TELEPHONE NUMBER OF CORRESPONDING AUTHOR:

Gino Davis

3636 16th Street

Washington DC, 20010

757-403-7068

ginoad1986@gmail.com

PRESENTATION TYPE: Poster

TECHNICAL AREA: Weather, Hydrology and Watersheds

AFFILIATION: STUDENT (Graduate)

CENTER AFFILIATION: NCAS

ARE YOU APPLYING FOR A STUDENT TRAVEL AWARD: NO