This short lesson describes how NUCAPS Soundings are created from VIIRS Infrared and ATMS Microwave imagery on Suomi NPP and JPSS-1 (now NOAA-20), how the data are provided to AWIPS and how the data can be modified if necessary. Several examples of how the data can be used in Decision Support are included.
NOAA/NWS students – to begin the training, use the web-based video, YouTube video, or audio playback options below (if present for this session). Certificates of completion for NOAA/NWS employees can be obtained by accessing the session via the Commerce Learning Center.
This short lesson details ways in which VIIRS data can complement the better temporal resolution of GOES-R Series data. Specifically, it discussed how Day Night Band imagery can be used to find low-level circulation centers at night, how Moonglint can aid in wind analyses, how near-infrared data can help with river flooding estimates. Fog Detection and Fire Detection are also discussed.
NOAA/NWS students – to begin the training, use the web-based video, YouTube video, or audio playback options below (if present for this session). Certificates of completion for NOAA/NWS employees can be obtained by accessing the session via the Commerce Learning Center.
This short lesson describes key features of the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission. This includes its data products and an explanation of their potential impact on forecast operations.
There are multiple training session options available, to begin the training, use either the Web-based video, MP4 video, or Youtube video link below. If you are experiencing slow connectivity, we recommend the Youtube video option. Be sure to have your speakers on and the volume loud enough to hear the presentation.
This module describes differences in microwave emissivity that aid in the characterization of land surfaces, snow and ice cover, and water surfaces. Example imagery is used to highlight strengths and limitations of single channels, and to identify microwave products that are incorporated into numerical weather prediction models.
NOAA/NWS students – to begin the training, use the web-based video, YouTube video, or audio playback options below (if present for this session). Certificates of completion for NOAA/NWS employees can be obtained by accessing the session via the Commerce Learning Center.
This module provides a brief overview of the oxygen and water vapor absorption regions in the microwave spectrum. Example imagery illustrates how microwave channels located within these absorption regions can be used to determine atmospheric temperature and moisture profiles.
NOAA/NWS students – to begin the training, use the web-based video, YouTube video, or audio playback options below (if present for this session). Certificates of completion for NOAA/NWS employees can be obtained by accessing the session via the Commerce Learning Center.
This module covers basic microwave remote sensing with a focus on passive sensing, putting into perspective how microwave remote sensing complements visible and infrared observation. Example imagery is used to compare common microwave frequency channels and how they are interpreted, as well as introduce products that are possible with microwave observations.
NOAA/NWS students – to begin the training, use the web-based video, YouTube video, or audio playback options below (if present for this session). Certificates of completion for NOAA/NWS employees can be obtained by accessing the session via the Commerce Learning Center.
This module focuses on how microwave sensors provide atmospheric moisture and precipitation information against different surface backgrounds (land vs. ocean). The four products introduced are Total Precipitable Water (TPW), Cloud Liquid Water (CLW), Rain Rate (RR), and Liquid Equivalent Snowfall Rate (SFR). Example single channel imagery is presented for both tropical cyclone analysis and thunderstorms over land.
NOAA/NWS students – to begin the training, use the web-based video, YouTube video, or audio playback options below (if present for this session). Certificates of completion for NOAA/NWS employees can be obtained by accessing the session via the Commerce Learning Center.
Talking points are available for this lesson and may be printed out to easily review the session in detail at any time.
PDF version of this training module
Microwave Remote Sensing: Clouds, Precipitation, and Water Vapor
A First Course in Atmospheric Radiation, 2nd Ed. (Petty 2006)
This Course has no Prerequisites
Bernie Connell
Bernie.Connell@colostate.edu