SATFAL - The Application of Meteorological Satellite Data to Nuclear Fallout Prediction,
Abstract
The SATFAL system employs the advanced technology provided by meteorological satellites to provide an efficient means for satisfying the Army's requirements for upper altitude wind data. The procedure and theory for determination fo the wind profile from radiance measurements obtained by vertical temperature sounders on polar orbiting meteorological satellites are presented and discussed. An analysis of 32 comparisons of SATFAL and conventional radiosonde wind observations shows that there is very little (indeed acceptable) difference between fallout predictions computed from wind obtained by the two procedures. With the current steady improvement of the state of the art in satellite radiometric measurements and technology, steadily increasing SARFAL wind accuracy is expected. Because of its basic simplicity and automated concepts, the SATFAL system is ideally suited for tactical battlefield applications. Since this system will rpvide all the wind data required by the Army above 15 km, it will obviate the need for high altitude balloonsondes and should, therby, allow for reduction in meteorological equipment and personnel required for such observations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA025994
Entities
People
- Louis D. Duncan
Organizations
- Atmospheric Sciences Laboratory