MetEd: Meteorology Education and Training. Operated by the COMET Program

Description:
This self-paced distance learning course provides forecasters, students, researchers, developers, and other interested learners with a foundation in the science, products, and applications of space-based satellite microwave remote sensing.

The three core modules that comprise this course are:

* Microwave Remote Sensing: Clouds, Precipitation, and Water Vapor
* Microwave Remote Sensing: Land and Ocean Surface
* Advances in Microwave Remote Sensing: Ocean Wind Speed and Direction

For those with an additional interest in this topic, the course Web site provides extra materials including a module introducing microwave remote sensing for environmental applications, a module giving background information about microwave remote sensing from polar-orbiting satellites, and two application focused modules (i.e., tropical cyclones and tropical rainfall potential).

Estimated time to complete: 4 - 6 h

close

Description:
This webcast is an expert lecture presented by Dr. Mitch Goldberg, Chief of the Satellite Meteorology and Climatology Division at NOAA/NESDIS. His presentation is divided into four sections 1) the importance of satellite observing systems, 2) a brief review of remote sensing principles, 3) results from current observing systems including AIRS, IASI, and CrIS, and 4) the importance of having hyperspectral soundings also taken from geostationary orbit. The lecture introduces listeners to what hyperspectral observations are, how they are done, some current products, and how these observations contribute to improved monitoring of atmospheric temperature, moisture, and even trace gases, environmental hazards, climate, oceans, and land. It also discusses how these data lead to improvements in numerical weather prediction.

Objectives:
After completing this module you should be able to:

• Describe the basic science behind hyperspectral observation from satellites
• Describe and contrast the capabilities of some current and future hyperspectral sounders (AIRS, IASI, and CrIS)
• Identify key environmental areas to which hyperspectral observations already contribute or will contribute
• Identify several limitations/challenges related to making hyperspectral satellite observations
• Describe the relationship between hyperspectral soundings taken in low-earth orbit and geostationary orbit

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-10-14

close

Description:
This Webcast covers the ocean surface wind retrieval process, the basics of microwave polarization as it relates to wind retrievals, and several operational examples. Information on the development of microwave sensors used to retrieve ocean surface wind speed and the ocean surface wind vector (speed and direction) is also included.

Objectives:
State some key meteorological applications for ocean surface winds

• Describe the benefits of using microwave remote sensing to observe ocean winds
• Describe the differences between active and passive microwave remote sensing
• Describe in general terms, the emission, transmission, and scattering of microwave energy within the Earth-atmosphere system
• State the key assumptions for derivation of wind speed and direction from passive observation of microwave radiation
• Describe the limitations of passive microwave remote sensing and impacts on deriving wind speed and direction (this applies to both product limits and accuracy)
• Use cloud liquid water imagery to help assess the validity of the wind speed and direction vector

Estimated time to complete: 45 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2005-11-28

close

Description:
A course outline is available online at http://www.comet.ucar.edu/class/POES_2001/outline.htm.

Estimated time to complete: 75 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2002-07-09

close

Description:
This Webcast provides an overview of the EUMETSAT Polar System (EPS), Europe's first dedicated operational polar-orbiting weather satellite program. EPS contributes to the Initial Joint Polar System (IJPS) under a cooperation agreement between EUMETSAT and NOAA to provide and improve operational meteorological and environmental forecasting and global climate monitoring services worldwide. The highly innovative features implemented with EPS include high-level sounding performance and enhanced data streams that further improve the capabilities of advanced NWP systems. The Webcast takes one hour to complete.

Objectives:
After completing this Webcast, learners will be able to:

* Identify the three major disciplines to which EPS contributes.
* Describe the role of EPS within the Global Operational Satellite Observation System (GOSOS) and the Initial Joint Polar-Orbiting Operational Satellite System (IJPS).
* Describe the main differences between polar and geostationary satellites.
* Describe the EPS programme elements and how they contribute to the flow of data products.
* Identify the instruments on the Metop satellite and their primary applications.
* Describe the capabilities and anticipated benefits of the IASI hyperspectral sounder.
* Describe the main services provided by EPS.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-09-22

close

Description:
This case exercise takes an in-depth look at a blowing snow event in the northern mainland of Canada. The case addresses specific low-level wind and snow conditions. Model data, satellite imagery, and observations are provided for assessing the potential for blowing snow and blizzard conditions as the event unfolds.

Objectives:
1. Review the winter climatology of this central Canadian region.
2. Recognize the specific low-level wind and snow conditions conducive to blowing snow/blizzard conditions.
3. Recognize the common synoptic patterns associated with a blowing snow event.
4. Consider the wind speed and direction forecasts for this event.
5. Examine the cessation of blowing snow conditions, from a forecasting standpoint.

Estimated time to complete: 60 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2004-11-08

close

Description:
This module presents an overview of how satellite data are turned into the satellite products used by operational forecasters and the research and educational communities, etc. The module begins by describing the process of creating simple image products that use relatively simple image manipulation techniques to highlight properties such as wind-blown dust, vegetation, and cloud phase. The module then describes some of the more complex processes involved in generating quantitative products, such as cloud identification, atmospheric instability, wildfire characterization, and sea surface temperature. Finally, the module introduces advanced products that use the thousands of channels on hyperspectral instruments to derive a variety of geophysical parameters related to the characterization of aerosols, trace gases, cloud microphysics, and atmospheric profiling, etc. The discussion of quantitative products uses the example of the Meteosat cloud mask, which indicates whether a pixel in a satellite image is clear or cloudy. Cloud mask products are important to all environmental satellites in that they form the basis for many other derived products.

Objectives:
After completing this Webcast, learners will be able to:

* List the benefits of using satellite products.
* For the three levels of products (simple, quantitative, and “cutting edge”), define the type of product, describe its advantages and, on a very basic level, some of the production techniques and strategies, and identify several products generated by it.
* Describe the purpose and function of cloud mask products.
* Describe some of the sources of error in the product generation process.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-06-23

close

Description:
The quick analysis of deformation zones provides an overview of system-relative atmospheric circulations. Since deformation is a primary factor in frontogenesis and frontolysis, understanding of these system-relative circulations is crucial to the diagnosis of atmospheric processes and weather prediction. This module is part of the series: "Dynamic Feature Identification: The Satellite Palette".

Objectives:
* Analyze the air masses and circulations
* Analyze the related paired and companion vorticity centers
* Analyze the related axis of maximum wind and wind maxima
* Analyze the location, orientation and shape of the deformation zone

Estimated time to complete: 75-90 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2007-03-22

close

Description:
Following an analysis of the main features of a deformation zone, the diagnosis of temporal and spatial changes in these features can be used to deduce underlying meteorological processes and their progression. In turn, this knowledge can then be used in the forecast process to adjust the forecast accordingly. This module takes 35-45 minutes to complete. It is part of the series: "Dynamic Feature Identification: The Satellite Palette".

Objectives:
* Diagnose the relative intensities of each vorticity center associated with a deformation zone
* Predict the evolution of each associated vorticity center
* Predict the evolution of the deformation zone's location, orientation and shape
* Based on the predicted evolution of a deformation zone, identify areas of frontolysis and frontogenesis and trends in the weather

Estimated time to complete: 35-45 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2007-11-05

close

Description:
The distribution of vorticity centres along an axis of maximum winds follows a fairly predictable pattern based on the characteristics of the flow. By diagnosing these characteristics, the meteorologist is able to quickly deduce the location and relative intensities of the associated vorticity centres as well as the relative sizes of the associated circulations. This information is summarized within the shape and orientation of the associated deformation zones. The deformation zones in turn reveal important details regarding feature motion and thermal advection and thus their diagnosis should be a critical part of the forecast process. This module takes 30-40 minutes to complete. It is part of the series: "Dynamic Feature Identification: The Satellite Palette".

Objectives:
* Compare the different characteristics of various flow patterns
* Locate the position and predict the relative intensities of vorticity centres along a flow
* Predict the position of the associated deformation zones based on the location and intensities of the vorticity centres

Estimated time to complete: 30-40 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-03-21

close

Description:
This 10-minute Webcast was developed from a presentation at the Naval Research Laboratory in April 2003 by LTJG Matt Henigin. LTJG Henigin reviews techniques for making visibility forecasts by combining surface observations with remote sensing data to estimate visibility in areas where no surface observations are available. Examples in the Webcast are drawn from southwest Asia.

Objectives:
• Describe the process for extrapolating visibility conditions in areas with no in-situ observations
• State the advantages of enhancing imagery for visibility forecasting
• State the reason for looping data for feature identification

Estimated time to complete: 10 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2003-07-23

close

Description:
The Dust Enhancement Techniques Using MODIS and SeaWiFS Webcast features Dr. Steven Miller of the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) in Monterey, California and takes about one hour to complete. Dr. Miller explains two techniques for detecting blowing dust using multispectral satellite imagery from the MODIS and SeaWiFS instruments. He also provides guidelines for the best uses of these techniques. The Webcast includes several recent operational examples from southwest Asia. This presentation was originally given at a workshop hosted by NRL in April, 2003.

Objectives:
After completing the module the user will be able to:

• Describe the process for creating RGB or “true-color” enhancements
• State the limitations of the RGB enhancement for detecting dust
• Describe the process for creating “false-color” dust specific enhancements
• Identify dust plumes using the dust enhancement
• Identify surface features that mimic dust signatures using the dust enhancement
• Identify source regions for dust using dust enhancement imagery
• Distinguish smoke and clouds from dust using the dust enhancement
• State the limitations of the false-color dust enhancement

Estimated time to complete: 45 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2003-07-16

close

Description:
This series addresses the use of satellite imagery and focuses attention on the identification of dynamic features using high-resolution satellite imagery with NWP verification. The series will eventually include more than 20 feature presentations on topics such as comma clouds, jet streaks, deformation zones, surface features, convection, and blocking.

Each feature presentation includes interactive identification exercises, analysis and diagnosis, conceptual models, and forecast implications.

Objectives:
• Analyze and diagnose dynamic features in satellite imagery
• Identify discrepancies between numerical model forecasts and atmospheric features
• Apply conceptual models to an atmospheric feature and correct for discrepancies between observed and numerical model analysis

Estimated time to complete: 20-90 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-01-10

close

Description:
The Environmental Satellite Resource Center provides easy access to a wide range of useful information, education, and training about low-earth orbit and geostationary satellites from trusted sources.

Estimated time to complete:

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-09-19

close

Description:
This module consists of four exercises where users identify surface features, distinguish clouds from snow on the ground, and determine cloud phase using multispectral analysis. The module also includes an overview of multispectral techniques available on many operational and research polar-orbiting satellites. A page with links to real-time polar-orbiting data and information is also included.

Objectives:
• State the properties of the 1.6 micrometer channel used in feature identification
• State the properties channels in the 3.5 to 4 micrometer region in feature identification
• List the advantages and limitations of the 1.6 micrometer channel in cloud identification
• List the advantages and limitations of the 1.6 micrometer channel in identifying snow on the ground
• List the advantages and limitations of channels in the 3.5 to 4 micrometer region for cloud identification
• List the advantages and limitations of channels in the 3.5 to 4 micrometer region in identifying snow on the ground
• Apply the properties of the visible, IR Window, 1.6 micrometer, and 3.7 micrometer channels to:
o Distinguish clouds from snow on the ground
o Determine the phase (ice or water) of clouds
o Detect the presence of fog
o Distinguish open water from ice-covered areas of lakes and rivers

Estimated time to complete: 1-2 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2002-07-03

close

Description:
This Webcast, presented by Tom Lee of the Naval Research Laboratory, focuses on feature identification using a combination of high-resolution multispectral polar and geostationary satellite imagery products.

The Webcast is made up of five short sections focus on a set of particularly challenging feature identification problems including: clouds over snow; contrails/thin cirrus; fires, hot spots, and smoke; blowing dust; snow, icebergs, and pack ice. Examples are included from Asia, Europe, and North America. A table summarizes suggested detection strategies for each phenomena type, based on available polar and geostationary capabilities and whether the event occurs during daytime or nighttime.

Objectives:
Using multispectral imagery identify the following features:
• Contrails/thin cirrus
• Fires, smoke, and hot spots,
• Blowing dust
• Snow, icebergs, and pack ice

Use multispectral imagery to:
• Distinguish clouds from show on the ground
• Distinguish smoke from clouds
• Distinguish blowing dust from clouds

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2002-10-24

close

Description:
Forecasting Dust Storms is the latest module in the Mesoscale Meteorology Primer. The module starts by discussing the conditions required for a dust storm, including an appropriate source of dust, sufficient wind and turbulence, and an unstable atmosphere. The module then explores the fate of dust in the atmosphere including dispersion, advection, and settling. The concluding section on forecasting examines a case in the Middle East and demonstrates the use of a mesoscale NWP model, as well as next-generation dust forecasting models.

Objectives:
After completing this module, the learner should be able to do the following things:

With regard to dust storm characteristics:

• Describe how visibility varies near severe dust storms
• Recall the average height of dust storms
With regard to sources of dust:
• Describe the soil types in appropriate source regions for dust storms
• Recall that blowing dust usually does not occur for at least 24 hours after a rainfall
• Identify potential source regions with satellite imagery

With regard to atmospheric conditions required for dust storms:

• Recall the threshold wind speed for lifting fine dust particles.
• Describe the atmospheric conditions that promote lofting of dust in terms of stability and turbulence
• List the 3 ways that turbulence typically arises in the atmosphere
• Describe the effect of nightfall on dust storms

With regard to the dissipation and dispersion of dust storms:

• Describe the atmospheric factors that influence the dispersion of dust
• Describe the effect of precipitation on suspended dust and why this occurs
• Recall how quickly dust settles once winds die down

With regard to the climatology of dust storms:

• List the most common synoptic patterns for raising dust in the Middle East
• Define Shamal
• List at least 3 mesoscale weather phenomena that result in dust storms
• Describe how haboobs and dust devils originate
• Describe how winter dust storms differ from summer dust storms

With regard to the satellite detection of blowing dust:

• Describe how dust appears on IR images, during both day and night and over both land and water
• Describe how dust appears on visible images, during both day and night and over both land and water
• Describe the advantages of imagery from polar orbiting and geostationary satellites
• With regard to forecasting dust storms:
• List the tools available for observing dust storms.
• Describe how mesoscale NWP models can help with a dust storm prediciton
• List the dust storm forecasting models and describe their respective advantages

Estimated time to complete: 2 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2003-10-23

close

Description:
The FORMOSAT-3 (Taiwan's Formosa Satellite Mission #3)/COSMIC (Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere & Climate) mission involves deployment of six satellites. Using the radio occultation technique, these satellites will interact with GPS satellites and Earth systems to gather data on our planet’s atmosphere. This mission not only has great value for weather, climate, and space weather research and forecasting, but also geodesy, gravity research, and other applications. Assimilation schemes are being developed to effectively integrate the data into existing operational weather forecasting models.

Objectives:
After completing the module the learner will be able to:

1) Describe the history of radio occultation.
2) State the principle of radio occultation and why it is so effective for Earth.
3) Describe the inversion of radio occultation data and the information derived.
4) State how radio occultation data has been validated with other data sources.
5) Describe the advantage of the open-loop versus phased-locked-loop tracking method.
6) State how radio occultation aids in the measurement of the planetary boundary layer.
7) List significant satellite missions and explain their contributions to radio occultation.
8) Describe the main features of the FORMOSAT-3/COSMIC mission.
9) List the payloads of FORMOSAT-3/COSMIC mission and describe what each does.
10) Explain how radio occultation will help monitoring and forecasting of weather.
11) Explain how radio occultation will help monitoring and forecasting of climate.
12) Explain how radio occultation will help monitoring and forecasting of space weather.
13) Describe the responsibilities of the CDAAC in the processing and flow of data.
14) Explain how and where to get archived or real-time radio occultation data.

Estimated time to complete: 75 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-07-07

close

Description:
This module is an introduction to NOAA's next generation Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-R (GOES-R) series, focusing on the value and anticipated benefits derived from an enhanced suite of instruments for improved monitoring of meteorological, environmental, climate, and space weather phenomena and related hazards. An extensive set of visualizations highlight GOES-R and its advanced observing capabilities for providing support in thirteen key environmental application areas including air quality and visibility, climate, cloud icing, fires, hurricanes, land cover, lightning, low clouds and fog, marine and the coastal environment, precipitation and flooding, severe storms and tornadoes, space weather, and volcanoes. The module includes an overview of the GOES-R space and ground infrastructure, highlighting key elements and services of the GOES-R program. In addition, the module reviews and contrasts basic concepts and capabilities applicable to geostationary and polar-orbiting satellites, exploring the complementary nature of the two systems. The module concludes with a collection of resource materials, including imagery, animations, and tables extracted from the module for easy access and for use in development of presentations and other learning materials.

Objectives:
After completing the module the learner will be able to:
• List several environmental hazards and phenomena where GOES-R satellite observations are expected to benefit users.
• Describe some of the key anticipated benefits as they relate to GOES-R monitoring of those same environmental hazards and phenomena.
• Describe the main GOES-R mission objectives.
• State the fundamental difference between geostationary and polar-orbiting satellites and briefly describe the advantages of each.
• List the major instruments (or instrument suites) on board the GOES-R satellites and briefly describe what each is designed to provide.
• Describe some of the GOES-R services and their significance to the overall success of the GOES-R mission.
• Describe the concept of a global observing system and the role of environmental satellites.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-12-19

close

Description:
This module introduces the NPOESS VIIRS imager that will fly on the NPOESS Preparatory Project and the NPOESS satellites. The VIIRS imager has many advanced features that will improve both spectral and temporal resolution. Ninety-five percent of VIIRS data will be available within 28 minutes of overpass time, providing consistent, high-quality, high-resolution data to users. This module covers the improvements to VIIRS by examining the systems that contributed to its development. Special attention is paid to the Day/Night Visible channel as VIIRS will be the first civilian satellite to image atmospheric and terrestrial features with and without moonlight.

Objectives:
• Name the important heritage instruments that led to the development of NPOESS
• State the advantages of multispectral imagery in fire and hot spot detection/interpretation
• Use true color imagery to identify surface, atmospheric, and ocean
surface features and characteristics
• Discriminate between nadir and edge of scan passes from AVHRR
• Describe the difference between fine and smooth OLS data
• State the advantages of the nighttime visible channel on OLS
• State features that can be seen during no-moon, half-moon, and full-moon illuminations
• Identify features in no-moon, half-moon, and full-moon illuminations

Estimated time to complete: 45 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2004-10-25

close

Description:
Chapter 3: Tropical Remote Sensing Applications, is the first published chapter of the online textbook, "Introduction to Tropical Meteorology." It covers remote sensing—the primary method of observing weather and climate across the global tropics. Learners will become familiar with the scientific basis and applications of radar and satellite remote sensing from examples in which clouds and precipitation are observed by measuring microwave signals using ground-based radar, spaceborne radar, and satellite radiometers. Wind estimation, dust and volcanic ash tracking, vertical sounding techniques, and remote measurement of sea-surface, soil and land surface properties are also covered. The online textbook has many special features, including individual chapter review questions and quiz, topic focus sections, direct access to operational forecasting topics, box sections that elaborate on theoretical concepts, links to resources for further study, critical thinking questions interspersed throughout the text, icons that identify resource links and critical thinking exercises, and science biographies.

Objectives:
At the end of this chapter, users should understand and be able to describe:

* Why remote sensing is important in the tropics
* Several tropical applications of ground-based radars
* The advantages and limitations of airborne and spaceborne radar
* Several tropical meteorology applications of satellite radar and microwave remote sensing
* The benefits and weaknesses of satellite estimates of water vapor content
* How GPS satellite signals are used to derive temperature and humidity profiles and how this benefits tropical meteorology
* The benefits and weaknesses of satellite precipitation estimates
* How lightning is detected by satellite
* The benefits and weaknesses of satellite wind estimation
* Why microwave sensors are useful for identifying surface moisture
* How vegetation and other land use/land cover changes are monitored by satellite
* How meteorologically important features, such as cloud properties, are monitored with satellite imagery
* How satellites are used for air quality assessment, such as dispersion of volcanic ash, chemical pollutants, dust, and smoke

Estimated time to complete: 100-110 mins

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2007-08-31

close

Description:
Altimeters onboard satellites such as Jason-2 measure sea surface height and other characteristics of the ocean surface. These characteristics are linked to underlying processes and structures, making altimetry data useful for understanding the full depth of the global ocean. This 75-minute module explores major discoveries made possible by altimetry data in oceanography, marine meteorology, the marine geosciences, climate studies, the cryosphere, and hydrology. For example, altimeters have played a vital role in detecting and monitoring sea level rise and its relation to climate change. The module also describes many of the practical applications of altimetry data, for example, in hurricane forecasting and monitoring climate events such as ENSO. Finally, the module describes Jason-2, which was launched in 2008, its products and services, and the Ocean Surface Topography Mission (OSTM), of which it is a part. OSTM is a collaboration between EUMETSAT and CNES (Europe) and NOAA and NASA (United States).

Objectives:
After completing this module, learners will be able to:

* Briefly describe how satellite altimetry works
* Identify major scientific discoveries enabled by satellite altimetry in various ocean-related fields
* Describe the varied applications of altimetry data
* Identify the goals of the Ocean Surface Topography Mission (OSTM) and Jason-2
* List the basic performance capabilities of Jason-2

Estimated time to complete: 1.00 - 1.25 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-06-25

close

Description:
This module provides background information on microwave remote sensing with polar-orbiting satellites. It reviews coverage, orbits, and data latency issues of current operational and selected research satellites and notes improvements expected in the NPP and NPOESS era. The module contrasts active vs. passive remote sensing, discusses advantages and limitations of different microwave instrument scanning strategies, and addresses viewing geometry with implications for spatial resolution and swath coverage. Finally, it offers a review of the microwave spectrum and special characteristics of microwave energy important for understanding microwave imagery and derived products. This module takes about 1 hour to complete.

Objectives:
* Describe the orbits and coverage of current polar-orbiting environmental satellites.
* Describe improvements in data latency with the implementation of pipeline processing and the NPOESS SafetyNet© ground system.
* State the differences between active and passive microwave remote sensing.
* Describe crosstrack, conical, and fan beam scanning strategies, the advantages and limitations of each, and their impacts on viewing geometry and spatial resolution.
* Describe the difference between window regions and absorption regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
* State the relationship between observed microwave energy, sensor field-of-view, and spatial resolution.
* Describe the basic principle of polarization, how it can affect emitted microwave radiation, and its importance for characterizing surface features and atmospheric constituents.
* Describe why water surfaces generally appear relatively cold and land surfaces appear relatively warm in the microwave.
* Describe how passive microwave observations can be used to infer ocean surface wind speed and direction.
* Describe the relationship between dielectric effect, scattering, and emissivity and its importance for microwave remote sensing.
* Name some of the remote sensing applications that rely on the dielectric effect on observed microwave radiation.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2007-04-20

close

Description:
This module provides an introduction to polar-orbiting-satellite-based microwave remote sensing products that depict moisture and precipitation in the atmosphere. The module begins with definitions and descriptions of total precipitable water and cloud liquid water products, contrasting each with more familiar infrared water vapor and window channel products. This is followed by an overview of microwave precipitation estimation and a discussion of how polar-satellite products compare with those from geostationary satellites and ground-based radar. A series of case examples highlights potential weather forecasting applications for total precipitable water and precipitation products. The module also includes an introduction to the Global Precipitation Monitoring Mission to which future NPOESS satellites will be an important contributor. This module takes about 75 minutes to complete.

Objectives:
After completing this module, learners will be able to:
• State the definition of total precipitable water
• State the definition of cloud liquid water
• Describe the difference between window regions and absorption regions of the electromagnetic spectrum
• Describe how precipitation rates are derived over land and ocean
• Describe the goals of the Global Precipitation Monitoring Program
• Interpret total precipitable water, cloud liquid water, and precipitation products presented in case examples

Estimated time to complete: 75 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-10-06

close

Description:
This module introduces the concepts and principles basic to retrieving important land and ocean surface properties using microwave remote sensing observations from polar-orbiting satellites. Section one reviews the advantages of microwave remote sensing from polar-orbiting platforms and briefly highlights some of the unique spectral characteristics that allow for differentiation between various surface types and properties. Subsequent sections present a more in-depth look at the derivation and application of microwave products that quantify four different land and ocean surface properties and their characteristics, including snow cover and water equivalent, sea ice, surface wetness and soil moisture, and sea surface temperature. The module reviews both past and current satellite missions and also discusses the future NPOESS constellation that is expected to include a passive microwave sensing capability beginning with the second NPOESS satellite. This module takes about 120 minutes to complete.

Objectives:
After completing this module learners will be able to:

• Describe the benefits of microwave remote sensing for observing various surface properties when compared to visible and infrared approaches
• Describe the key application areas and users that benefit from characterization of snow cover, sea ice, sea surface temperature, and surface wetness and soil moisture
• Understand the basic principles that enable the microwave remote sensing of the various surface properties described in the module
• Describe the limitations common to the retrieval of surface properties covered in the module
• Describe some of the limitations unique to each of the four surface properties covered in the module
• Name the polar-orbiting satellite systems currently available and those planned for future implementation

Estimated time to complete: 2 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-05-23

close

Description:
This module presents an overview of space-based microwave remote sensing for environmental applications. It provides basic information on polar-orbiting satellite characteristics, current microwave instruments, and the imagery and products currently available from these sensors. Special attention is given to the improvements expected in the NPOESS era. This module is an introduction to other, more in-depth modules covering the science and application of cloud, precipitation, water vapor, land and sea surface observations.

Objectives:
• Describe how microwave remote sensing compliments visible and infrared observations
• Describe the general spatial and temporal coverage characteristics of microwave observations from polar-orbiting satellites
• Define data latency and explain why it occurs
• Describe the improvements to data latency coming in 2006, and then in the NPOESS era
• List several products that rely on microwave remote sensing
• Explain the fundamental difference between active versus passive remote sensing
• State the six “key” NPOESS Environmental Data Records (EDRs) considered essential to weather and climate monitoring and prediction
• Describe the importance and impact of microwave observations on numerical weather prediction models
• State the key differences between microwave and radiosonde sounding of atmospheric temperature and moisture
• Describe radio frequency interference as it relates to microwave observations, its geographical distribution, and potential impact on products

Estimated time to complete: 40 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-04-03

close

Description:
This module describes current and future satellite instruments and products used for monitoring the fire cycle, with an emphasis on polar-orbiting satellites. Product information is presented in the context of the fire cycle: from assessing the pre- and post-fire environment to detecting and monitoring active fires, smoke, and aerosols. Product information is also consolidated in the Fire Product Suite, available in the module and as a PDF file. The module concludes with an interactive fire case study, supplemented with observations from a National Weather Service forecaster who experienced the fire. The module is intended for a wide range of users involved with wildfire detection and monitoring, including land use managers, hydrologists, weather forecasters, and researchers.

Objectives:
* Demonstrate the advantages and limitations of using multi-sensor multispectral analysis for monitoring the fire cycle.
* Describe some of the remote sensing products and systems used for detecting and monitoring the wildland fire cycle. For each product, identify its capabilities, limitations, and applications.
* Identify the common thermal emission regions used to detect fires in both polar-orbiting and geostationary satellites.
* Identify the capabilities and limitations of geostationary vs. polar-orbiting satellites, shortwave vs. longwave imagery, and true vs. false color products in detecting and monitoring the fire cycle.
* Identify the essential steps in automated and semi-automated smoke forecasting.
* Identify the capabilities of the upcoming NPOESS VIIRS sensor with regard to the fire cycle.

Estimated time to complete: 1.5 – 2 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2007-11-14

close

Description:
This Webcast, NexSat: Preparing Users for the NPOESS/VIIRS Era, describes the NexSat Website (http://www.nrlmry.navy.mil/nexsat_pages/nexsat_home.html), a public educational resource provided by the Naval Research Laboratory and the Integrated Program Office. The NexSat Website offers near real-time access to polar-orbiting satellite imagery and derived products over the lower 48 states and Hawaii from several research and operational satellites. Model data from FNMOC and data from the National Lightning Detection Network are also accessible from the site. Additionally, the wide variety of imagery and derived products available from current polar-orbiting satellites and previews the capabilities of the VIIRS instrument on NPP and NPOESS are also highlighted. In many cases VIIRS will provide the same imagery and derived products at significantly higher spatial and temporal resolution. This tour takes about 8 minutes to complete.

Estimated time to complete: 8 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2005-05-06

close

Description:
The COMET Program and the Integrated Program Office are pleased to announce the publication of The Operational Tropical Rainfall Potential (TRaP) module. This module, developed by Sheldon Kusselson (Satellite Analysis Branch, NESDIS), traces the development of the present TRaP product and shows numerous examples from recent hurricane seasons comparing model precipitation forecast amounts, TRaP estimated rainfall amounts, and observed rainfall. Guidelines for using the TRaP product and future improvements are presented at the conclusion of the module.

Objectives:
• State the basis of the TRaP technique, its formulation, and inputs
• State the assumptions and the limitations of the technique
• Find and access TRaP products on the Internet
• Interpret TRaP imagery for use in precipitation estimation

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2004-04-19

close

Description:
This Web-based module is a component of the Integrated Sensor Training (IST) Professional Development Series (PDS) Professional Competency Unit #6-Satellite Data and Products. Dr. Stan Kidder of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA) at Colorado State University is the principal science advisor for this module with significant assistance from Dr. Gary Hufford (NWS Alaska Region). The module provides an overview of current polar satellite products and their applications in forecasting situations and also contains a summary of instruments currently in use and a short history of the U.S. polar satellite program. The module is the first in a series focusing on polar satellite products and applications.

Objectives:
• Describe polar satellite orbits
• List channels available from AVHRR on NOAA polar-orbiting satellites
• Describe multispectral imagery products for fog/stratus detection, volcanic ash detection, fire detection, and precipitation products

Estimated time to complete:

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1999-03-25

close

Description:
This Web-based module is a component of the Integrated Sensor Training (IST) Professional Development Series (PDS) Professional Competency Unit #6-Satellite Data and Products. This module provides a closer look at the capabilities, products, and applications available to operational weather forecasting with the present suite of microwave instruments onboard both NOAA and DMSP satellites. If you wish, you may launch the module from this page.

Objectives:
• Identify the primary products available from current operational microwave sensors
• Compare and contrast the advantages and limitations of conical and cross-track scanning
• Describe the differences between ascending and descending satellite passes
• State the limitations of microwave data near coastlines
• Describe the differences in how emission and scattering channels sense microwave energy
• Compare and contrast TPW and CLW
• State the reason that TPW and CLW can’t be retrieved over land
• State the key advantage of microwave instruments over visible/infrared instruments

Estimated time to complete: 1-2 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1999-07-23

close

Description:
POES 3: Case Studies contains two short case study examples that demonstrate different uses of polar satellite data. The first case example shows how AMSU microwave data can be used to supplement other datasets to improve precipitation forecasts. The second case example demonstrates the TRaP method for calculating rainfall from Hurricane Georges.

Objectives:
• State the advantages of using microwave data for precipitation forecasting
• Describe the method for comparing NWP forecasts with microwave moisture information
• Compare and contrast the information from GOES water vapor imagery with information from microwave TPW as it relates to Case 1.
• Describe the TRaP product

Estimated time to complete: 1-2 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1999-12-10

close

Description:
This module describes the different sounding products available from NOAA polar-orbiting satellites. The module provides guidance on integrating POES sounding data more effectively with observations from other platforms to improve operational forecasting activities. The ability to derive soundings in cloudy conditions increases the value of this data to operational forecasters. Forecasters with responsibilities outside the CONUS will also be able to use the global coverage that POES sounders offer.

Objectives:
• State the advantages of POES soundings over RAOB soundings
• Compare and contrast POES and GOES soundings
• Identify products currently generated and supported for operational use by NOAA’s sounding retrieval system
• State the spatial characteristics of ATOVS for moisture and temperature retrievals
• Describe how POES sounding retrievals compliment GOES and RAOB soundings

Estimated time to complete: 1-2 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2000-05-22

close

Description:
This module introduces forecasters to the use of microwave image products for observing and analyzing tropical cyclones. Microwave data from polar-orbiting satellites is crucial to today’s operational forecasters, and particularly for those with maritime forecasting responsibilities where in situ observations are sparse. This module includes information on storm structure and techniques for improved storm positioning using the 37 and 85-91 GHz channels from several satellite sensors. Information on current sensors and on the product availability in the NPOESS era is also presented.

Objectives:
• Explain how single channel and multispectral microwave imagery can be used to locate centers of circulation and other features within tropical cyclones
• Explain how parallax error affects imagery from different microwave channels
• Identify satellites that carry microwave imagers and sounders
• Contrast active and passive microwave remote sensing strategies
• Contrast conical and cross-track scanning strategies
• Explain how clouds, precipitation, and the ocean surface interact with microwave
energy at different frequencies
• Associate storm characteristics with features observed in microwave imagery

Estimated time to complete: 60 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2004-11-10

close

Description:
This Webcast is based on presentations given by Dr. W. Paul Menzel at several conferences. It is approximately 60 minutes in length and introduces the MODIS instrument on the Terra satellite. Dr. Menzel begins by providing background on MODIS channel selection and instrument calibration. He continues with a variety of examples that include both climatological and meteorological applications, including high-resolution data and derived-product imagery. The examples are divided into land, ocean, and atmosphere applications. Dr. Menzel concludes with a discussion of the new direct-broadcast capability of the Terra satellite that allows users all over the world to receive MODIS data.

Objectives:
• List the major land applications available from the MODIS sensor
• List the major ocean applications available from the MODIS sensor
• List the major atmospheric applications available from the MODIS sensor
• Describe the way that MODIS identifies features such as snow cover and vegetation cover
• Describe the way that cloud classification and/or phase can be determined using MODIS products
• State the channels used for detecting fires and hot spots

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2002-02-11

close

Description:
This Webcast features Dr. Michael Freilich (Oregon State University, principal investigator on the QuikSCAT project for NSF) introducing and discussing the fundamentals of scatterometry and how they apply to the SeaWinds instrument on QuikSCAT. Dr. Freilich also describes how the model function is used to derive wind speed and direction from multiple collocated measurements.

Objectives:
• Describe the process of active remote sensing
• State the wavelengths used for deriving ocean surface wind speed and direction
• State the main variables that are used in the model function for deriving wind vectors (speed and direction)
• Define azimuth angle as it relates to satellite remote sensing geometry
• Define the incidence angle as it relates to satellite remote sensing geometry
• State the atmospheric conditions when wind vectors may be compromised
• Compare the scan strategies of fan beam and conical scatterometers
• Explain why certain parts of a conical scatterometer swath may have compromised accuracy

Estimated time to complete: 40 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2004-07-14

close

Description:
This Website was developed for undergraduate students enrolled in an introductory earth or atmospheric science course. It is designed to supplement lecture and textbooks. Its goal is to make you a better consumer of weather information by providing dynamic graphics, animations, and science content about remote sensing, visible and infrared satellite imagery, and hurricanes. As part of the module, you will apply what you've learned by exploring recent hurricanes through satellite imagery. When you have completed this module, you should be able to view satellite imagery in a typical weather forecast on TV or the Web and recognize the importance of some features.

Estimated time to complete: 2 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1998-01-12

close

Description:
Satellite Feature Identification: Blocking Patterns examines how water vapor imagery can be used to help diagnose blocking patterns and their dissipation. Four major blocking patterns are covered in this module: Blocking highs, Cut-off lows, Rex blocks and Omega blocks. This module is part of the series: "Dynamic Feature Identification: The Satellite Palette".

Objectives:
* Identify when and where blocking patterns most frequently occur
* List the forecasting advantages of identifying and analyzing blocking patterns via water vapor satellite imagery
* Draw the 500mb pattern of the 4 main types of blocks and outline their associated weather conditions
* Identify any blocking patterns present in water vapor imagery
* Locate the deformation zones of blocking patterns, and be able to diagnose their dissipation on water vapor satellite animations

Estimated time to complete: .50 - .75 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-06-26

close

Description:
Satellite Feature Identification: Ring of Fire introduces forecasters to the potentially damaging convection that can develop in conjunction with blocking high pressure centers and examines how to identify it from a water vapor imagery perspective. This module is part of the series "Dynamic Feature Identification: The Satellite Palette".

Objectives:
* List the forecasting advantages of identifying and analyzing Ring of Fire convection via water vapor satellite imagery.
* Describe the typical synoptic conditions leading to Ring of Fire convection.
* Identify Ring of Fire patterns present in water vapor imagery.
* List what types of convection develop, their location, and what kind of damage they can produce in a Ring of Fire event.
* Indicate when a Ring of Fire pattern is dissipating by using water vapor satellite animations.

Estimated time to complete: .25 - .50 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-06-05

close

This module is not available on the Web. To order a CD, please see our contact information.

Description:
Satellite Meteorology: Case Studies Using GOES Imager Data is a continuation of the first module in the satellite meteorology series, Satellite Meteorology: Remote Sensing Using the New GOES Imager. This module includes a winter and summer severe storm case as well as a tutorial on tropical storms. It provides many opportunities to view and interpret GOES imager data and integrate those data with model, radar, and other data types. Additional material and exercises will be available on the COMET home page.

The subject matter experts for this module are Dr. James F. Purdom and Dr. Ray Zehr.

Estimated time to complete: 2-3 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1997-01-01

close

Description:
This Web module was adapted from the CD-ROM module Satellite Meteorology: Using the New GOES Imager, and uses Macromedia® Flash to deliver audio over the Web.

The 60-minute presentation provides a review of the five GOES imager channels and their use, along with operational examples. The module also includes updated information on the 6.7 micrometer (water vapor) channel and the new 13.3 micrometer channel that will appear on the GOES N-P satellites.

Objectives:
• Identify sun glint in visible imagery
• State the advantages of adjusting enhancement tables in visible imagery for cloud feature identification
• Describe emissivity differences of cirrus and stratus clouds in the short-wave infrared channel (3.9 micron) and the infrared window channel (11 micron)
• Describe differences in how thick and thin cirrus clouds appear in the short-wave infrared channel (3.9 micron) and the infrared window channel (11 micron)
• Describe differences in how water and ice clouds appear in the short-wave infrared channel (3.9 micron) and the infrared window channel (11 micron)
• Describe how the fog/stratus product in derived
• State ways to distinguish low-level fog and stratus from higher water clouds
• Explain how the subpixel effect highlights fires and hot spots short-wave infrared channel (3.9 micron) imagery
• Explain the differences in appearance between ice clouds, stratus, and snow on the ground in short-wave infrared (3.9 micron), visible, and infrared window (11 micron) channel imagery
• Explain how the reflected component of the short-wave infrared channel (3.9 micron) channel affects imagery from this channel
• Explain how the reflected product is derived
• Describe advantages of using the reflected product in feature identification
• State the part of the atmosphere sensed by the water vapor (6.7 micron) channel
• Explain how storm relative loops are created
• State the improvements to the water vapor (6.7 micron) channel on the GOES N/O/P satellites
• List products derived using the split-window channel
• List the products derived from the carbon dioxide channel

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2002-10-02

close

Description:
This module, adapted for the Web from the CD-ROM released in 1998, reviews GOES sounder characteristics, data products, and applications concurrent with the GOES I(8)-P satellites. Topics covered include the electromagnetic spectrum and sounder channel selection, weighting functions for temperature and moisture determination, and assessment of GOES sounder products. Sample imagery and products are provided along with several short case examples that demonstrate how these products are beneficial to meteorological analysis and forecasting applications.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-12-06

close

This module is not available on the Web. To order a CD, please see our contact information.

Description:
Satellite Meteorology: Remote Sensing Using the New GOES Imager is an introduction to the five-channel imager now available on GOES-8 and -9. After an introduction to the enhanced capabilities of these satellites, the module reviews remote sensing and radiative transfer theory through a series of conceptual models. These model discussions include explanations of how the different imager channels were chosen and the atmospheric, land, and oceanographic phenomena the channels can monitor both individually and in combination. The last section includes case study exercises and tutorials that provide opportunities to work with the new digital imagery.

The subject matter experts for this module are Dr. W. Paul Menzel and Dr. James F. Purdom.

Objectives:
• Identify sun glint in visible imagery
• State the advantages of adjusting enhancement tables in visible imagery for cloud feature identification
• Describe emissivity differences of cirrus and stratus clouds in the short-wave infrared channel (3.9 micron) and the infrared window channel (11 micron)
• Describe differences in how thick and thin cirrus clouds appear in the short-wave infrared channel (3.9 micron) and the infrared window channel (11 micron)
• Describe differences in how water and ice clouds appear in the short-wave infrared channel (3.9 micron) and the infrared window channel (11 micron)
• Describe how the fog/stratus product in derived
• State ways to distinguish low-level fog and stratus from higher water clouds
• Explain how the subpixel effect highlights fires and hot spots short-wave infrared channel (3.9 micron) imagery
• Explain the differences in appearance between ice clouds, stratus, and snow on the ground in short-wave infrared (3.9 micron), visible, and infrared window (11 micron) channel imagery
• Explain how the reflected component of the short-wave infrared channel (3.9 micron) channel affects imagery from this channel
• Explain how the reflected product is derived
• Describe advantages of using the reflected product in feature identification
• State the part of the atmosphere sensed by the water vapor (6.7 micron) channel
• Explain how storm relative loops are created
• State the improvements to the water vapor (6.7 micron) channel on the GOES N/O/P satellites
• List products derived using the split-window channel
• List the products derived from the carbon dioxide channel


Lake Effect Snow (LES)

• List the conditions that are favorable to the formation of LES
• Identify upper level shortwave troughs in water vapor (6.7 m) imagery
• Use water vapor (6.7 m) and IR window (10.7m) imagery to identify factors that contribute to LES
• Identify clouds producing LES
• Interpret vertical cross-section wind and temperate data
• State the effect that topography has on LES band formation and evolution
• Use the reflected energy product to identify snow on the ground
• Use appropriate GOES channels and the reflected energy product to identify ice clouds
• Use appropriate GOES channels and the reflected energy product to identify areas of unfrozen lake surface
• Describe the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 LES bands
• Describe the two forcing mechanisms for LES
• Identify LES convergence zones using appropriate GOES channels
• Explain the relationship between convergence and divergence as it relates to LES bands
• Estimate snowfall rates using Doppler radar and appropriate GOES channels and derived products

Convection Via Outflows:

• Identify NWP products used for predicting convective storms involving thunderstorm outflows
• Use appropriate GOES imager channels to track and monitor thunderstorm outflows
• Use appropriate GOES imager channels to characterize airmasss stability

• Explain the interaction between thunderstorm outflows, drylines, and airmasses

Tropical Cyclone Tutorial

• Identify the tropical storm formation regions in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans
• Identify cloud patterns that characterize tropical depressions in visible and IR Window (10.7 m) imagery
• Estimate tropical cyclone intensity from cloud pattern evolution
• Describe the structure of a developing tropical cyclone
• Describe the structure of a mature tropical cyclone
• State the mechanisms that weaken hurricanes and tropical storms
• Describe the diurnal cycle of tropical cyclones

17 Jan 1995 Case

• Use water vapor (6.7 m) and IR Window (10.7 m) imagery, to identify short waves, jet streaks, and vorticity centers
• Use vertical cross sections, to identify areas of subsidence, jet maxima, and areas of potential vorticity
• Use the fog stratus product, visible imagery, and IR Window (10.7 m) imagery to distinguish fog and stratus from cirrus clouds
• Explain how sunlight can affect the fog stratus product
• Use the fog stratus product, visible imagery, and IR Window (10.7 m) imagery to distinguish cloud from snow on the ground
• Use the fog stratus product, the reflected energy product, and IR Window (10.7 m) imagery to identify potential supercooled water clouds

17 April 1995 Case

• Use water vapor (6.7 m) and IR Window (10.7 m) imagery, to identify short waves, jet streaks, and vorticity centers
• Use visible, water vapor (6.7 m), and IR Window (10.7 m) imagery, to distinguish water clouds from ice clouds and areas of high humidity
• Use visible imagery loops and storm relative visible imagery loops, to identify areas of unstable air, convergence zones, outflow boundaries, and stationary fronts

Estimated time to complete: 5-6 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1996-01-01

close

This module is not available on the Web. To order a CD, please see our contact information.

Description:
This module provides a review of GOES sounder characteristics and applications. Topics include a short history of satellite sounding, a review of infrared radiative transfer, GOES sounder spectral channel selection, weighting functions, atmospheric temperature and moisture profile retrievals, and assessment of GOES sounder products. Sample imagery and products are provided along with several mini-cases that show how these products are used for analysis and forecasting applications.

The subject matter experts for this module are Dr. W. Paul Menzel, NESDIS; Timothy Schmit, NESDIS; Gary Wade, NESDIS; Anthony Mostek, NWS Satellite Training Program Leader

Objectives:
Objectives for the case study portion of Using the GOES Sounder

• Use visible, water vapor (6.7 micron), IR Window (10.7 micron), precipitable water, and lifted index imagery to identify areas of potential severe convection
• Use precipitable water and lifted index imagery to track atmospheric moisture plumes

Estimated time to complete: 3-5 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1998-01-01

close

Description:
This Webcast, narrated by Dr. Friday, describes the creation and roles of the NPOESS (National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System) Science Advisory Team (SAT). This team is composed of leading atmospheric scientists and headed by Dr. W. Elbert "Joe" Friday, former director of the NWS. The SAT provides scientific review and guidance to the individual Operational Algorithm Teams (OATs), which are organized by discipline and/or sensor type. The VIIRS (Visible and Infrared Imager Radiometer Suite) OAT (VOAT) for example, advises on instrument development and tuning of algorithms to maximize efficiency and to assure that the measurement objectives of specific environmental data records (EDRs) are met.

Objectives:
• State the purposes of the Science Advisory Team
• State the constraints of the Science Advisory Team
• Describe the Science Advisory Team management structure

Estimated time to complete: 15 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2003-06-27

close

Description:
This Webcast features Dr. Robert Murphy of NASA discussing the data quality flags and distribution network for the initial data coming from the NPOESS Preparatory Project (NPP) satellite instruments. Dr. Murphy also provides contact points for more information or to receive the initial NPP data stream.

Estimated time to complete: 10 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2003-10-09

close

Description:
This Webcast introduces the SPoRT Center, a joint NASA and National Weather Service project to provide unique NASA datasets to several forecast offices and evaluate their usefulness and impact on forecast operations. The presentation provides a description of the SPoRT Center, examples of its collaborations with weather forecast offices, and demonstrates use of MODIS data, AMSR-E derived products and lightning flash density product applications. It also includes mention of the projects the SPoRT Center will likely undertake in the future. The information contained in this Webcast reflects the status of the SPoRT program as of the summer of 2006. Since the SPoRT program evolves to meet NASA program objectives, some of the capabilities or activities portrayed in this presentation may have changed since its original production.

Objectives:
After completing the Webcast the learner will be able to:

• Describe the SPoRT program
  
• State the mission of the SPoRT program
  
• State advantages of using MODIS true-color imagery
  
• Explain how higher resolution MODIS data can complement GOES and insitu data
  
• State the advantages of AMSR-E data for coastal forecasters.
  
• State an advantage of using MODIS SST data for model initialization
  
• State how the SPoRT program works with local, regional, and national levels of the NWS
  
• Describe North Alabama Lightning Array data sets and their contribution to forecasting convection
  

  Estimated time to complete: 1 h

  Includes audio: yes

  Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
   * Plug-in information

  Last published on: 2007-02-28

  close

Description:
This Webcast, presented by Tom Lee (Naval Research Laboratory, Monterey,
California) demonstrates techniques for dust detection using standard visible and longwave infrared window channels available worldwide on geostationary and polar-orbiting satellite instruments. Several examples from southwest Asia and Africa demonstrate techniques such as using control images, stretching enhancement curves, and using looping to highlight dust features.

Estimated time to complete: 25 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2003-10-06

close

Description:
Vorticity maxima signatures are very common and indicate areas of ascending circulation and atmospheric forcing. The correct placement of vorticity maxima is vital to the placement of related dynamic features such as the axis of maximum winds and deformation zones. This module is part of the series “Dynamic Feature Identification: The Satellite Palette”.

Objectives:
* Identify and predict the vorticity maxima in order to predict areas of positive vorticity advection
* Identify the related axes of maximum winds, deformation zones and air masses

Estimated time to complete: 30-40 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-05-22

close

Description:
Vorticity minima signatures are common features of the atmosphere. They indicate areas of descending circulation and atmospheric forcing and can be used to diagnose dynamic features such as the axis of maximum winds and deformation zones. This module provides insight on the analysis of these dynamic atmospheric features. This module is part of the series: "Dynamic Feature Identification: The Satellite Palette".

Objectives:
* Identify and predict vorticity minima in order to predict areas of negative vorticity advection

* Identify the related axes of maximum winds, shear zones, deformation zones, and air masses

Estimated time to complete: 30-40 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-05-22

close

Description:
The "Regional Training Course on the Use of Environmental Satellite Data in Meteorological Applications for RAIII and IV," which took place in Córdoba, Argentina between September 22 and October 3, 2008, was sponsored by WMO and NOAA NWS, and organized with the assistance of CONAE, CIRA, UBA, INPE, Eumetsat and The COMET Program. The goal of the training course was to increase the skills of Latin American meteorologists for providing better services through the use of environmental satellites. This Webcast collection offers the following seven lectures presented at the workshop, five in Spanish, and two in English: 1) Sistemas que cruzan el ecuador: Intrusiones en el hemisferio Norte y Sur (Mr. Mike Davison, HPC International Desk); 2) Los productos de Meteosat y Metop para las Américas (Mr. José Prieto, EUMETSAT); 3) Procesos de mesoescala y tiempo severo. Influencia de la corriente en chorro en capas bajas en el Sudeste de Sudamérica en la convección profunda (Matilde Nicolini, Grupo de Modelado de Mesoescala CIMA-CONICET/DCAO-Universidad de Buenos Aires); 4) Datos y productos satelitarios disponibles para Sudamérica (Lic. Gloria Cristina Pujol); 5) Forecasts and Warnings of Aviation Hazards:Turbulence and 6) Warnings of Aviation Hazards: Detecting Icing Clouds (Mr. Herbert Puempel, WMO/RMTC); and 7) Ciclogénesis (Mrs. Claudia M. Campetella, Dpto. de Ciencias de la Atmósfera y los Océanos, Universidad de Buenos Aires). Note: Most of the lectures in this collection are delivered in Spanish. Accordingly, the quiz and survey are available only in Spanish.

Objectives:
General objective
These presentations will allow participants to increase their knowledge and skills in the use of satellite data and products.
Specific objectives
* Update the learner's knowledge of available data and products (from operational satellites, as well as research and development missions), available data sources and distribution methods.
* Increase knowledge and skill related to the use of satellite data and products, particularly in support of aviation services.

Estimated time to complete: 9 - 10 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-06-03

close

Description:
Este módulo, creado bajo la dirección de Sheldon Kusselson (Satellite Analysis Branch, NESDIS), presenta el desarrollo del producto de potencial de precipitación tropical (TraP) y numerosos ejemplos tomados de las temporadas de huracanes más recientes para comparar las cantidades de precipitación pronosticadas por el modelo, las cantidades de precipitación estimadas por TRaP y las lluvias observadas. El módulo concluye con una serie de pautas para usar el producto TRaP y una descripción de las mejoras previstas para el futuro.

Objectives:
Cuando termine de estudiar el módulo, podrá:
• explicar los fundamentos de la técnica TRaP, así como su formulación y los datos de entrada;
• enumerar las suposiciones y las limitaciones de dicha técnica;
• encontrar y acceder a los productos TRaP en internet;
• interpretar las imágenes TRaP para estimar la precipitación.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-03-06

close

Description:
Este módulo presenta el uso de los productos de imágenes de microondas para observar y analizar los ciclones tropicales. Hoy en día, los datos de microondas de los satélites en órbita polar son esenciales, especialmente al generar pronóstico marítimos, para los cuales las observaciones in situ son escasas. Este módulo incluye información sobre la estructura de las tormentas y técnicas para determinar con mayor precisión la posición de las tormentas mediante los canales de 37 y 85-91 GHz de los sensores de varios satélites. También se presenta información sobre los sensores actuales y la disponibilidad de los productos en la era de NPOESS.

Objectives:
Cuando termine de estudiar el módulo, usted podrá:

• explicar cómo podemos usar las imágenes de microondas de un canal y multiespectrales para identificar los centros de circulación y otras características del interior de los ciclones tropicales;
• explicar cómo el error de paralaje afecta las imágenes en los diferentes canales de microondas;
• identificar los satélites que llevan a bordo generadores de imágenes y sondas atmosféricas de microondas;
• contrastar las estrategias de percepción remota activa y pasiva por microondas;
• contrastar las estrategias de barrido cónico y lateral;
• explicar cómo las nubes, la precipitación y la superficie del océano interactúan con la energía de microondas de distintas frecuencias;
• asociar las características de la tormenta con los elementos observados en las imágenes de microondas.

Estimated time to complete: 60 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-03-13

close

Description:
Este módulo presenta los conceptos y principios básicos de obtener información importante sobre las propiedades de la superficie terrestre y oceánica por medio de las observaciones de teledetección por microondas realizadas por los satélites en órbita polar. La primera sección explica las ventajas de la teledetección por microondas desde una plataforma en órbita polar y describe brevemente algunas de las exclusivas características espectrales que permiten diferenciar los diferentes tipos de superficies y sus propiedades. Las secciones posteriores presentan más a fondo la derivación y aplicación de los productos de microondas que cuantifican cuatro propiedades distintas de la superficie terrestre y oceánica y sus características, incluidos manto de nieve y equivalente en agua de la nieve, hielo marino, humedad de la superficie y del suelo, y temperatura de la superficie del mar. Lleva aproximadamente 2 horas terminar este módulo. El módulo describe las misiones satelitales pasadas y actuales, así como la futura constelación de NPOESS, que deberá incluir capacidades de detección pasiva por microondas a partir del segundo satélite NPOESS. Lleva aproximadamente 120 minutos terminar este módulo.

Objectives:
Cuando termine de estudiar el módulo, podrá:

• describir los beneficios de la teledetección por microondas para observar diferentes propiedades de la superficie en comparación con el uso de métodos en el visible e infrarrojo;
• describir las áreas clave de aplicación y los grupos de usuarios que se beneficiarán de la caracterización del manto de nieve, hielo marino, temperatura de la superficie del mar y humedad de la superficie y del suelo;
• comprender los principios básicos que permiten la teledetección por microondas de las propiedades de la superficie que se describen en el módulo;
• describir las limitaciones comunes de la extracción de las propiedades de la superficie que se describen en el módulo;
• describir algunas de las limitaciones particulares de cada una de la cuatro propiedades de la superficie que se describen en el módulo;
• nombrar los sistemas satelitales en órbita polar que están disponibles en la actualidad y los cuya implementación está programad para el futuro.

Estimated time to complete: 2 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-12-10

close

Description:
This module presents the scientific and technical basis for using satellite imagery, so that forecasters and other users can develop locally and regionally useful techniques for observing and forecasting the behavior of the atmosphere. The module reviews remote sensing and radiative transfer theory through a series of conceptual models. The discussions contain explanations of the different imager channels and the phenomena that the channels can monitor individually and in combination. The module contains imagery from the EUMETSAT Meteosat satellite and the U.S. geostationary operational environmental satellite (GOES) series.

The module is a modification of the earlier COMET module, Satellite Meteorology: Remote Sensing Using the New GOES Imager. The following changes were made to make it more relevant to African forecasters:

* Most of the GOES imagery was replaced with Meteosat imagery over Africa
* The content discussions were changed to reflect the new imagery
* Questions and interactions were added to enhance learning
* There are French and English versions to serve a bilingual audience

The module was developed as part of the ASMET (African Satellite Meteorology Education and Training) project, the goal of which was to reduce the impact of weather-related disasters in Africa by training meteorologists to produce better forecasts using the satellite meteorological data available to them. The project was sponsored by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT).

Estimated time to complete: 6 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1997-01-01

close

Description:
Audio on CD is English but Spanish audio is available on on our server to play locally.

Estimated time to complete:

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1999-01-01

close

Description:
Este módulo presenta los productos de percepción remota por microondas generados por satélites polares que describen la humedad en la atmósfera y las tasas de precipitación. El módulo comienza con una explicación de los productos agua precipitable total y agua líquida en las nubes, y los compara con las imágenes infrarrojas de vapor de agua. A continuación el módulo presenta una serie de casos de ejemplo que destacan el papel de las imágenes de agua precipitable total y de tasa de precipitación por microondas para pronosticar con precisión los sistemas meteorológicos. Finalmente, el módulo describe la misión de observación de la precipitación mundial (Global Precipitation Monitoring) para la cual el aporte de los futuros satélites NPOESS será importante. Tardará aproximadamente 75 minutos en terminar este módulo.

Objectives:
Cuando termine de estudiar el módulo, podrá:

• Dar una definición de agua precipitable total (TPW).


• Dar una definición de agua líquida en las nubes (CLW).


• Describir la diferencia entre las regiones de ventana atmosférica y las regiones de absorción del espectro electromagnético.


• Explicar cómo se derivan las tasas de lluvia sobre tierra firme y sobre el océano.


• Describir los objetivos de la misión de medición de la precipitación global (Global Precipitation Measurement Mission).


• Interpretar los productos de agua precipitable total, agua líquida en las nubes y tasa de lluvia a partir
  de los casos de ejemplo.

Estimated time to complete: 75 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-04-01

close

Description:
Este módulo web es una adaptación del módulo en CD-ROM titulado Meteorología satelital: uso del nuevo generador de imágenes del GOES, y utiliza Macromedia® Flash para entregar el componente de audio sobre la web.

Esta presentación de 60 minutos de duración pasa reseña brevemente a los cinco canales del generador de imágenes del GOES y su uso, y brinda ejemplos operativos. El módulo incluye asimismo información actualizada acerca del canal de 6,7 µm (vapor de agua) y el nuevo canal de 13,3 µm que comenzará a utilizarse en los satélites GOES N a P.

Estimated time to complete: 30 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-06-21

close

Description:
Cette série est à propos de l´utilisation des images satellitaires et met l´accent sur l´identification des caractéristiques dynamiques en utilisant les images satellitaires de haute résolution avec la vérification de la prévision numérique du temps (PNT). Cette série va finalement comprendre plus que 20 présentations sur les sujets comme les nuages en forme de virgule, les courants-jet, les zones de déformation, les caractéristiques de surface, la convection et le blocage.

Chaque présentation comprend des exercices d´identification interactifs, l´analyse et la diagnostique, les modèles conceptuels, et les implications des prévisions. Il faut à peu près 40 minutes pour compléter chaque présentation dans la série.

Objectives:
• Analyser et diagnostiquer les caractéristiques dynamiques des images satellitaires
• Identifier les différences entres les prévisions numériques et les caractéristiques atmosphériques
• Appliquer les modèles conceptuels et corriger les différences entre les observations et les modèles

Estimated time to complete: 40 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-01-10

close

Description:
Ce Webcast est destiné à donner un aperçu du Système polaire EUMETSAT (EPS), le premier programme opérationnel européen en orbite polaire spécifiquement conçu pour la météorologie.

EPS représente la contribution d'EUMETSAT au Système polaire initial conjoint IJPS, au titre d'un accord de coopération conclu entre EUMETSAT et la NOAA en vue d'assurer la fourniture des données essentielles pour l'amélioration des services opérationnels de prévision météorologique et environnementale et de surveillance du climat dans le monde entier.

EPS est un système innovant et hautement performant, tant au niveau de ses capacités de sondage que de débit de données. Ses principaux bénéficiaires seront entre autres les systèmes de prévision numérique (NWP).

La présentation du Webcast dure 60 minutes environ.

Objectives:
A conclusion de la présentation, l'étudiant sera en mesure de:

* Identifier les trois disciplines auxquelles EPS va contribuer
* Décrire le rôle d'EPS dans le Système mondial Global Opérationnel d'observation par satellites et le Système polaire initial conjoint
* Décrire les différences majeures entre les satellites à défilement, en orbite polaire, et ceux en orbite géostationnaire
* Décrire les éléments du programme EPS et comment ils contribuent au flux des produits et données
* Identifier les instruments du satellite Metop et leurs applications prinicpales principales applications
* Décrire les capacités et apports attendus du sondeur hyperspectral IASI
* Décrire les principaux services fournis par EPS

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2007-03-15

close

Description:
Les signatures des minimums de tourbillon sont tout aussi courantes et importantes que celles des maximums de tourbillon. Il est tout aussi important de diagnostiquer où il y a un forçage atmosphérique de descente que d’identifier les zones de forçage atmosphérique d’ascension.

Objectives:
* Identifier et prévoir les minimums de tourbillon afin de prévoir les zones d’advection négative de tourbillon

* Identifier les axes connexes de vents maximums, les zones de cisaillement, les zones de déformation et les masses d’air

Estimated time to complete: 30-40 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-05-22

close

Description:
Les signatures des maximums de tourbillon sont très courantes et indiquent des zones de circulation ascendante et de forçage atmosphérique. La localisation exacte des maximums de tourbillon est cruciale pour la localisation des caractéristiques dynamiques connexes comme l'axe de vents maximums et les zones de déformation.

Objectives:
* Identifier et prévoir les maximums de tourbillon afin de prévoir les zones d'advection positive de tourbillon

* Identifier les axes connexes des vents maximums, les zones de déformation et les masses d'air

Estimated time to complete: 30-40 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-05-22

close

Description:
Este módulo, que ha sido adaptado para web a partir de un CD-ROM publicado en 1998, describe las características, los productos de datos y las aplicaciones de la sonda atmosférica de los satélites GOES I(8) a P. El módulo abarca temas tales como una descripción del espectro electromagnético y de la selección de los canales de la sonda atmosférica, las funciones de ponderación para determinar temperatura y humedad, y la evalauación de los productos de la sonda atmosférica del GOES. Se incluyen ejemplos de imágenes y productos, así como varios ejemplos de casos abreviados que muestran cómo estos productos se usan en aplicaciones de análisis meteorológico y pronóstico.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2007-05-21

close

Description:
Capítulo 3: Aplicaciones tropicales de percepción remota es el primer capítulo que se publica del libro de texto en línea "Introducción a la meteorología tropical". Este capítulo cubre la percepción remota, que constituye el principal método empleado para observar el tiempo y el clima a través de los trópicos en el mundo. Este capítulo le permitirá familiarizarse con los fundamentos y las aplicaciones científicas de la percepción remota por radar y satélites por medio de ejemplos en los cuales las nubes y la precipitación se observan midiendo las señales de microondas con radar terrestre, radar espacial y radiómetros satelitales. También se cubren temas tales como estimación de vientos, seguimiento de polvo y ceniza volcánica, técnicas de sondeo vertical y medición remota de la superficie del mar, del suelo y de la superficie terrestre. El libro de texto en línea incorpora muchas características especiales, como preguntas de repaso y pruebas en los capítulos individuales, secciones de enfoque en temas particulares, acceso directo a temas de pronóstico operativo, secciones que destacan conceptos teóricos, enlaces a recursos para profundizar en el estudio del tema, preguntas de pensamiento crítico a lo largo del texto, iconos que identifican enlaces a recursos y ejercicios de pensamiento crítico, y biografías de científicos.

Objectives:
Al final de este capítulo, debería comprender y ser capaz de explicar:

* por qué la percepción remota es importante en los trópicos;
* varias aplicaciones tropicales del radar terrestre;
* las ventajas y limitaciones del radar aéreo y espacial;
* varias aplicaciones del radar satelital y la percepción remota por microondas en meteorología tropical;
* los beneficios y las limitaciones de las estimaciones satelitales del contenido de vapor de agua;
* cómo se utilizan las señales del satélite de posicionamiento global (GPS) para derivar perfiles de temperatura y humedad, y los beneficios que esto implica para la meteorología tropical;
* los beneficios y las limitaciones de las estimaciones satelitales de precipitación;
* cómo los satélites detectan los rayos;
* los beneficios y las limitaciones de las estimaciones satelitales del viento;
* por qué son útiles los sensores de microondas en la identificación de la humedad de superficie;
* cómo se utilizan los satélites para seguir los cambios en la vegetación, y otros usos y cobertura del suelo;
* cómo se siguen los fenómenos importantes en meteorología, como las propiedades de las nubes, mediante imágenes satelitales;
* cómo se utilizan los satélites para evaluar la calidad del aire, por ejemplo observando la dispersión de ceniza volcánica, los contaminantes químicos, el polvo y el humo.

Estimated time to complete: 100-110 mins.

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-01-10

close

Description:
Este módulo describe los sensores y productos satelitales actuales y futuros empleados en la observación del ciclo de vida de los incendios, con énfasis en los satélites en órbita polar. La información de los productos se presenta en el contexto del ciclo de vida de los incendios: evaluación del ambiente antes y después del incendio para detectar y observar los incendios activos, el humo y los aerosoles. La información de los productos también se consolida en la suite de productos de incendios (Fire Product Suite) de MODIS, que se incluye en el módulo y en formato PDF. El módulo concluye con un caso de estudio interactivo sobre un incendio que incluye las observaciones de un pronosticador del National Weather Service que trabajó directamente en ese incendio. El módulo está pensado para la amplia gama de personas cuyo trabajo requiere considerar la detección y observación de incendios descontrolados, como la administración de usos del suelo, hidrología, meteorología e investigación científica.

Objectives:
Objetivos del módulo:
• Demostrar las ventajas y limitaciones de usar el análisis multisensor y multiespectral para observar el ciclo de vida de los incendios.
• Describir algunos de los productos y sistemas de percepción remota empleados para detectar y vigilar el ciclo de vida de los incendios en zonas despobladas. Para cada producto, identificar sus posibilidades, limitaciones y aplicaciones.
• Identificar las regiones de emisión térmica de uso común en los satélites en órbita polar y geoestacionarios para detectar los incendios.
• Identificar y comparar las posibilidades y limitaciones de los satélites geoestacionarios y en órbita polar, de las imágenes de onda corta y onda larga, y de los productos en color real y falso para detectar y observar el ciclo de vida de los incendios.
• Identificar los pasos esenciales del pronóstico automatizado y semiautomatizado de humo.
• Identificar las posibilidades del sensor VIIRS del sistema de satélites polares NPOESS en lo referente al ciclo de vida de los incendios.

Estimated time to complete: 1.5 – 2 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-02-01

close

Description:
Este módulo presenta un panorama general del proceso mediante el cual los datos satelitales se transforman en los productos satelitales utilizados por los centros de pronóstico operativo y las comunidades de investigación, docente, etc. El módulo comienza con una descripción del proceso de creación de productos simples mediante técnicas de manipulación de imágenes relativamente sencillas diseñadas para resaltar ciertas propiedades, como el polvo arrastrado por el viento, la vegetación o la fase del agua de las nubes. A continuación, el módulo describe algunos de los procesos más complejos involucrados en la creación de productos cuantitativos, como los de identificación de nubes, inestabilidad atmosférica, caracterización de incendios descontrolados y temperatura de la superficie del mar. Finalmente, el módulo presenta productos avanzados que aprovechan los miles de canales disponibles en los instrumentos hiperespectrales para derivar una amplia gama de parámetros geofísicos relacionados con la caracterización de aerosoles, gases traza, microfísica de nubes, perfiles atmosféricos, etc. La explicación de los productos cuantitativos utiliza como ejemplo la máscara de nubes de Meteosat, que indica si un píxel en una imagen satelital está despejado o nublado. Los productos de máscara de nubes son importantes para todos los satélites ambientales, porque forman la base de muchos otros productos derivados.

Objectives:
Cuando termine de estudiar este webcast, el estudiante sabrá:
• Enumerar los beneficios de usar productos satelitales.
• Para los tres niveles de productos (simple, cuantitativo y “de punta”), definir el tipo de producto, describir sus ventajas y, a un nivel muy básico, algunas las técnicas y estrategias de producción, así como identificar varios de los productos que permiten generar.
• Describir el objetivo y la función de los productos de máscara nubosa.
• Describir algunas de las fuentes de errores del proceso de generación de productos.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-08-29

close

Description:
Ce document présente une vue générale de la façon dont les produits sont extraits à partir des données satellites. Il décrit le processus de création des produits image qui utilise des différence de canaux, des compositions RVB ainsi que d’autres techniques pour mettre en évidence certaines propriétés spécifiques ; des produits quantitatifs qui utilisent différentes sources de données et d’outils pour obtenir un seul paramètre quantifié ; et des produits avancés qui utilisent les milliers de canaux des instruments hyper spectraux pour obtenir une grande variété de paramètres. La discussion sur les produits quantitatifs prend l’exemple du masque de nuage de Météosat, qui indique pour chaque pixel de l’image satellite s’il est nuageux ou ciel clair. Bien que ces masques de nuages ne soient pas très utilisés opérationnellement, ils sont à la base de beaucoup d’autres produits.

Objectives:
After completing this Webcast, learners will be able to:

* List the benefits of using satellite products.
* For the three levels of products (simple, quantitative, and “cutting edge”), define the type of product, describe its advantages and, on a very basic level, some of the production techniques and strategies, and identify several products generated by it.
* Describe the purpose and function of cloud mask products.
* Describe some of the sources of error in the product generation process.

Estimated time to complete: .75 - 1 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-01-26

close

Description:
Éste es el módulo más reciente del Manual de meteorología de mesoescala (Mesoscale Meteorology Primer). El módulo comienza con una discusión de las condiciones necesarias para la formación de las tormentas de polvo, como una fuente adecuada de polvo, vientos y turbulencia suficientes y una atmósfera inestable. A continuación el módulo explora lo que ocurre con el polvo en la atmósfera, incluidos los aspectos de dispersión, advección y deposición. La sección final sobre pronósticos examina un caso ocurrido en el Medio Oriente y demuestra el uso de un modelo de PNT de mesoescala, así como modelos de pronóstico de tormentas de polvo de próxima generación.

Objectives:
Objetivos del módulo

Cuando termine de estudiar este módulo, podrá:

En lo referente a las características de las tormentas de polvo:
• describir cómo la visibilidad varía cerca de una tormenta de polvo severa;
• recordar la altura media que alcanzan las tormentas de polvo.

En lo referente al origen del polvo:
• describir los tipos de suelo que se hallan en las regiones de origen de tormentas de polvo;
• recordar que normalmente no se levanta una nube de polvo durante al menos 24 horas después de un episodio de lluvia;
• identificar las potenciales regiones de origen en imágenes satelitales.

En lo referente a las condiciones atmosféricas necesarias para levantar una tormenta de polvo:
• recordar el umbral de velocidad del viento necesario para levantar las partículas de polvo finas;
• describir las condiciones atmosféricas propicias para levantar el polvo en términos de estabilidad y turbulencia;
• enumerar las tres formas en que la turbulencia suele surgir en la atmósfera;
• describir el efecto del anochecer en las tormentas de polvo;

En lo referente a la disipación y dispersión de tormentas de polvo:
• describir los factores atmosféricos que afectan la dispersión del polvo;
• describir el efecto de la precipitación en el polvo suspendido en el aire y por qué esto ocurre;
• recordar con qué velocidad se deposita el polvo una vez que los vientos se calman.

En lo referente la climatología de las tormentas de polvo:
• enumerar los patrones sinópticos más comunes que levantan el polvo en el Medio Oriente;
• dar una definición del chamal;
• enumerar al menos tres fenómenos de mesoescala que provocan tormentas de polvo;
• describir el mecanismo que produce las tempestades de polvo (habub) y las tolvaneras;
• describir la diferencia entre una tormenta de polvo de invierno y de verano.

En lo referente a la detección satelital de las nubes de polvo:
• describir el aspecto del polvo en las imágenes infrarrojas, tanto de día como de noche y sobre agua y tierra firme;
• describir el aspecto del polvo en las imágenes en el visible, tanto de día como de noche y sobre agua y tierra firme
• describir las ventajas de las imágenes de los satélites en órbita polar y geoestacionarios;

En lo referente al pronóstico de tormentas de polvo:
• enumerar las herramientas que están disponibles para observar las tormentas de polvo;
• describir cómo los modelos numéricos de mesoescala pueden ayudar a pronosticar las tormentas de polvo;
• enumerar los modelos de pronóstico de tormentas de polvo y describir sus respectivas ventajas.

Estimated time to complete: 2 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-05-06

close

Description:
El "Curso Regional de Entrenamiento en Técnicas Satelitales Aplicadas a la Meteorología y Temas Afines, para las Regiones III y IV" que se celebró en Córdoba, Argentina entre el 22 de septiembre y el 3 de octubre de 2008 fue patrocinado por la OMM y el NWS de NOAA, y fue organizado con la asistencia de CONAE, CIRA, UBA, INPE, Eumetsat y The COMET Program. Este curso de formación tuvo como objetivo capacitar a los meteorólogos en América Latina para mejorar sus servicios mediante el uso de productos de satélites ambientales. Esta colección reúne siete presentaciones grabadas que originalmente se presentaron en el taller, cinco en español y dos en inglés: 1) Sistemas que cruzan el ecuador: Intrusiones en el hemisferio Norte y Sur (Sr. Mike Davison, HPC International Desk); 2) Los productos de Meteosat y Metop para las Américas (Sr. José Prieto, EUMETSAT); 3) Procesos de mesoescala y tiempo severo. Influencia de la corriente en chorro en capas bajas en el Sudeste de Sudamérica en la convección profunda (Matilde Nicolini, Grupo de Modelado de Mesoescala CIMA-CONICET/DCAO-Universidad de Buenos Aires); 4) Datos y productos satelitarios disponibles para Sudamérica (Lic. Gloria Cristina Pujol); 5) Forecasts and Warnings of Aviation Hazards:Turbulence and 6) Warnings of Aviation Hazards: Detecting Icing Clouds (Sr. Herbert Puempel, WMO/RMTC); y 7) Ciclogénesis (Sra. Claudia M. Campetella, Dpto. de Ciencias de la Atmósfera y los Océanos, Universidad de Buenos Aires).

Objectives:
Objetivo general
Estas presentaciones permitirán a los participantes aumentar su conocimiento y habilidades en el uso de datos y productos satelitales.
Objetivos específicos
* Actualizar el conocimiento de los participantes sobre datos y productos disponibles (tanto de satélites operativos como de misiones de investigación y desarrollo), fuentes de información y medios de obtención.
* Profundizar el conocimiento y habilidades de utilización de datos y productos satelitales, en particular para apoyar los servicios a la aviación.

Estimated time to complete: 9 - 10 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-06-03

close

Description:
The quick analysis of deformation zones provides an overview of system-relative atmospheric circulations. Since deformation is a primary factor in frontogenesis and frontolysis, understanding of these system-relative circulations is crucial to the diagnosis of atmospheric processes and weather prediction. This module is part of the series: "Dynamic Feature Identification: The Satellite Palette".

Objectives:
• Analyze the air masses and circulations
• Analyze the related paired and companion vorticity centers
• Analyze the related axis of maximum wind and wind maxima
• Analyze the location, orientation and shape of the deformation zone

Estimated time to complete: 1.00 - 1.25 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-07-14

close

Description:
Following an analysis of the main features of a deformation zone, the diagnosis of temporal and spatial changes in these features can be used to deduce underlying meteorological processes and their progression. In turn, this knowledge can then be used in the forecast process to adjust the forecast accordingly. This module takes 35-45 minutes to complete. It is part of the series: "Dynamic Feature Identification: The Satellite Palette".

Objectives:
• Diagnose the relative intensities of each vorticity center associated with a deformation zone
• Predict the evolution of each associated vorticity center
• Predict the evolution of the deformation zone's location, orientation and shape
• Based on the predicted evolution of a deformation zone, identify areas of frontolysis and frontogenesis and trends in the weather

Estimated time to complete: .50 - .75 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-07-14

close

Description:
El análisis rápido de las zonas de deformación brinda un panorama general de las circulaciones atmosféricas relativas al sistema. Como la deformación es un factor primario en la frontogénesis y frontólisis, la comprensión de estas circulaciones atmosféricas relativas al sistema es esencial para poder diagnosticar los procesos atmosféricos y pronosticar el tiempo. Este módulo forma parte de la serie “Identificación de estructuras dinámicas: la paleta satelital”.

Objectives:
* Analizar las masas de aire y sus circulaciones
* Analizar los centros de vorticidad apareados y complementarios relacionados
* Analizar los ejes de vientos máximos y los máximos de vientos relacionados
* Analizar la posición, orientación y forma de la zona de deformación

Estimated time to complete: 1.50 - 2.00 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-10-06

close