The Whole Sky Sensor
Abstract
The height and velocity of visible clouds and percent cover at several altitudes over a portion (28 degree cone) of the sky can been determined from the ground by means of triangulation with an instrument consisting of a pair of CID cameras and a computer. A system has been built which is stand- alone, automatic and produces reports every ten minutes. Results are repeatable and accuracy as determined by indirect calibration is within ten percent. The system can operate at night and in light snow or rain. The cameras can distinguish features in a cloud cover that is featurelesss to the naked eye. Cost of the instrument should not exceed $10,000. A simple algorithm for the corresponding of points in 3-space has been found. There is some indication that types of clouds can be identified from an examination of the population statistics of the images. The system should include shelters for the instruments and an auto-iris attachment. More experience with different kinds of clouds and extensive field testing are required. Algorithms for slant range viewing, non- horizontal cloud forms and time series methods to handle low altitude images should be developed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 26, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA179271
Entities
People
- James K. Rocks