P1.9
Cloud type classification by combining CloudSat radar and CALIPSO lidar measurements
Zhien Wang, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY; and K. Sassen
Due to the different microphysical properties, formation dynamics and radiative forcings of various cloud types, classifying clouds into categories based on type is important not only to apply different algorithms operationally to CloudSat and CALIPSO data streams for cloud microphysical property retrieval but also to study global cloud climatology. Combined CloudSat radar (CPR) and CALIPSO lidar (CALIOP) measurements provide better cloud information, including cloud phase, vertical and horizontal distribution, and optical thickness, for cloud type classification. First, a combined CPR and CALIOP cloud-phase determination approach, which classify a cloud layer into water, ice, or mixed phase, will be introduced. Then a fuzzy logic based classification method is used to classify clouds into either cumulus, stratocumulus, stratus, altocumulus altostratus, nimbostratus, deep convective, or high cloud by using CPR and CALIOP measurements. Examples with CloudSat and CALIPSO data will be presented.
Poster Session 1, Lidar Applications In Atmospheric Studies
Wednesday, 17 January 2007, 2:30 PM-4:00 PM, Exhibit Hall C
Previous paper Next paper