JP1.22
A comparison of MISR cloud motion vectors and NOAA radar wind profiler data
Laura M. Hinkelman, JISAO/Univ. of Washington, Seattle, WA; and R. T. Marchand and T. P. Ackerman
Cloud motion vectors obtained stereoscopically by the Multiangle Imaging
Spectroradiometer (MISR) have been evaluated. The reference data for this
assessment came from 23 sites in NOAA's radar wind profiler network located
across the central United States. Agreement between the two data sets was
appraised as a function of cloud top height, MISR wind retrieval quality
estimates, version of the stereoscopic retrieval algorithm, and wind direction.
For "best wind" retrievals, the agreement between MISR and NOAA profiler
wind measurements was similar to that found between wind profilers and
radiosondes in previous studies. Comparisons are better for clouds close to
the surface than at high altitudes. Updates to the MISR stereoscopic retrieval
algorithm have improved the level of agreement over time. Tightening of the MISR
data quality standards has also improved agreement, but at the expense of
decreasing the number of available MISR wind vector estimates.
Joint Poster Session 1, Satellite Retrievals and Clouds
Monday, 12 January 2009, 2:30 PM-4:00 PM, Hall 5
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