Regional and Mesoscale Meteorology Branch

ASCAT Winds

Introduction

This session covers the characteristics of the Advanced Scatterometer, or ASCAT, instrument aboard EUMETSAT’S MetOp-A satellite. ASCAT data became available in AWIPS with the version released in February 2009 (OB9). The coverage and biases of the ocean vector winds retrieved by ASCAT will be assessed. Also, comparisons between ASCAT data and QuikSCAT data will be made. Finally, a warning decision will be presented to illustrate effective utilization of ASCAT data for marine operations.

• Understand how ASCAT works
• Assess strengths and weaknesses of ASCAT wind retrievals
• Identify contrasts between between ASCAT and QuikSCAT data
• Understand how to best use ASCAT data operationally

Training Session Options

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 Learn Center

1. Web-based video that can be taken at anytime (streamed, not recommended for low-bandwidth users). Be sure to have your speakers on and the volume loud enough to hear the presentation.

References/Additional Links

• Ocean Surface Vector Winds Derived from the Advanced Scatteromter (ASCAT – 50 km)