Extended Abstract (156K)11.2
Comparing the expected data products of a hybrid space-based DWL with those currently available to global forecast models
George D. Emmitt, Simpson Weather Associates, Charlottesville, VA
Today's global numerical models obtain direct wind observations from rawinsondes, ACARS, buoys, wind profilers and surface meteorological towers on a regular basis. Additional wind data is derived from scatterometers, cloud motions and water vapor motions. Recent simulation studies of a proposed hybrid Doppler Wind Lidar (DWL) have produced realistic vertical and horizontal coverage for directly measured winds throughout the entire troposphere, clouds permitting. While these data are used in Observing System Simulation Experiments (OSSEs) conducted by NOAA and NASA, there is merit in looking at just how much and how good any DWL data will be compared to that presently useable. The argument is that current models, in particular the data assimilation functions, are designed to work with currently available data and effectively filter high resolution observations through data thinning and smoothing. Thus, we might expect that OSSEs using current models may not reveal the full potential impact of a new data set such as DWL global winds. Comparisons of expected DWL data products from a hybrid technology instrument will be made with those observations routinely available. Both accuracy and spatial resolution will be considered.
Session 11, Atmospheric Observations
Thursday, 13 January 2005, 1:30 PM-5:00 PM
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