Numerical Weather Prediction and Satellite Observations.
Abstract
The history of the scientific approach to weather forecasting is traced through the 20th century, including a projection to the year 2000. It is felt that such a review may foster a better understanding of the problems we face and will face in the future. During the first half of the century, little could be done, even on an experimental basis, because of the overwhelming need for tools that did not appear until midcentury. It is remarkable, however, that there were scientists who thought about weather forecasting in optimistic terms. There was a consistency throughout this preliminary period in determining exactly what was required for a successful beginning. It could not have been otherwise, because the natural laws dictate rather clearly these three requirements: (1) Sufficient observations of the atmosphere; (2) Sufficient knowledge of atmospheric mechanisms; (3) Sufficiently powerful means of computation. Solutions to these problems were adequately advanced by midcentury to allow the use of the scientific approach, but future advances must continue to be made to improve weather forecasting. Since 1960, observational weather satellites have played a large role in improving our ability to determine the initial state of the atmosphere, and they promise to play an ever larger role in the future. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA165141
Entities
People
- Frederick G. Shuman
Organizations
- National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service