Cumulus Cloud Dimension Statistics for New Orleans, Essen, and Hannover.
Abstract
Methods used in the study of cloud dimensions have included analyses of aircraft and satellite stereographic photos, use of radar echo data, and numerical simulation of growing clouds. This kind of research is important from a military perspective because of the effects clouds can have on remote sensing devices such as the Infrared Search and Tracking System. USAFETAC developed a new and simple method to quantify selected cumulus cloud dimensions. Using a 10-year sample from the USAFETAC surface and upper-air databases, statistics for minimum, maximum, mean cloud base height, cloud top height, and cloud cover amount were produced for three locations: Essen and Hannover, West Germany, and New Orleans, Louisiana. Statistics were compiled for three different cumulus cloud types in two categories: monthly, and hourly by season. The frequency and percent frequency occurrence of cumulus cloud types were also calculated. Most statistics were produced from surface observations, but cloud top statistics were obtained from a one-dimensional cumulus cloud model that uses both surface and upper-air data. Graphic illustrations of selected cloud dimensions appear as figures in Appendix B.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA183376
Entities
People
- Randell J. Barry
Organizations
- Air Force Technical Applications Center