An Evaluation of the SPADS Automated Cloud Analysis Program.
Abstract
An evaluation of the Satellite Data Processing and Display System automated cloud and precipitation intensity analysis program is presented. The program uses the Geostationary Observational Environmental Satellite visual and infrared imagery to produce contoured digital displays of cloud amount, cloud type, cloud-top temperature, cloud-top height and precipitation intensity for an approximate 1024 x 1024 n mi area centered at 35 deg N 80 deg W. Verification consists of correlating surface and upper-air observations, pilot reports, automated radar summaries and a manual analysis of the satellite imagery to the contoured digital display from the automated cloud analysis program for five cases during the summer 1983. The test results indicate considerable skill, particularly for cloud amount, cloud-top temperature and cloud-top height. The cloud type and precipitation intensity results were generally consistent but further testing is required to refine the thresholds and the standard deviation values for discrimination of particular cloud types.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA143987
Entities
People
- C. A. Moren
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School