Regional and Mesoscale Meteorology Branch

Introduction:

This is an introductory session meant to complement CIRA’s 3.9 µm tutorial, but is a good review for any forecaster.

Objectives:

1. Review the science behind the 3.9 µm channel
2. Discuss the many possible applications, including fog detection, fire detection, and snow/low cloud differentiation
3. Look at a number of examples
4. Preview what’s to come with future sensors

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 Learning Center.

1. Audio playback (recommended for low-bandwidth users) – This is an audio playback version in the form of a downloadable VISITview and can be taken at anytime. Create a directory to download the audio playback file (56 MB) from the following link: Download Exe After extracting the files into that directory click on either the visitplay.bat or visitauto.bat file to start the lesson. If both files are present, use visitauto.bat
2. YouTube video:

References / Additional Links:

• Talking points are available for this lesson and may be printed out to easily review the session in detail at any time.
• Ellrod, G. P., 1995: Advances in the Detection and Analysis of Fog at Night Using GOES Multispectral Infrared Imagery Wea. Forecasting, 606–619.
• Lindsey, D. T., D. Hillger, L. Grasso, J. Knaff, and J. Dostalek, 2006: Climatology and analysis for thunderstorms with enhanced 3.9 µm reflectivity. Mon. Wea. Rev., in press. Email me if you want a copy.
• CIRA’s 3.9 µm tutorial
• COMET’s GOES Channel Selection Tutorial
• Modification of the Fog Product in AWIPS