Regional and Mesoscale Meteorology Branch

Comparing NWP Synthetic / Simulated Satellite Imagery to Observed Satellite Imagery

Introduction

This module is part of the satellite foundational course for GOES-R (SatFC-G). This particular module covers simulated / synthetic satellite imagery. Learning objectives include 1) Understand the generation, display and limitations of synthetic / simulated imagery, 2) Introduce how the use of synthetic / simulated satellite imagery from NWP can aid in the forecast process of cloud cover,low cloud / fog, convection and extra-tropical cyclogenesis, 3) How to verify synthetic / simulated satellite imagery with GOES-R imagery.

Since the size of this module is greater than 100 MB, we recommend that you utilize either the Download video OR YouTube version below.

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. 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.

2. YouTube video:

3. Download video (recommended for low-bandwidth users) – This is an audio playback version in the form of an Articulate Presenter video and can be taken at anytime.

   Create a directory to download the video file from the following link: http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/visit/training_sessions/goes_r_comparing_synthetic_to_observed_satellite_imagery/goes_r_comparing_synthetic_to_observed_satellite_imagery_articulate.zip

   After extracting the files into that directory click on either the presentation.html OR index.html file and the video will begin to play in your browser.

Original Pre-Launch Version

This version of the training module debuted in the Fall of 2016 which included Himawari and pre-GOES-R era GOES imagery. Formats include:

• Articulate Presenter Video
• Articulate Download (zip file)
• Youtube video
• Talking points document

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.
• Powerpoint file
• VISIT training: Synthetic Imagery in Forecasting Severe Weather
• VISIT training: Synthetic Imagery in Forecasting Orographic Cirrus
• VISIT training: Synthetic Imagery in Forecasting Low Clouds and Fog
• VISIT training: Synthetic Imagery in Forecasting Cyclogenesis
• Bikos, D., Lindsey, D.T., Otkin, J., Sieglaff, J., Grasso, L., Siewert, C., Correia Jr., J., Coniglio, M., Rabin, R., Kain, J.S., and S. Dembek, 2012: Synthetic Satellite Imagery For Real-Time High Resolution Model Evaluation. Wea. Forecasting,27,784-795. http://dx.doi.org/10.1175/WAF-D-11-00130.1
• Grasso, L.D., D.T. Lindsey, K. Lim, A. Clark, and D. Bikos, 2014: Evaluation of and Suggested Improvements to the WSM6 Microphysics in WRF-ARW Using Synthetic and Observed GOES-13 Imagery. Monthly Weather Review, 142:10, 3635-3650.