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.
• 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
POES,POES,introduction,microwave,sounder,imager,AVHRR,AMSU,SSM/I,fire detection,volcano,GOES,history,rain rate,precipitable water
July 2014: This lesson's 1999 publication date precludes it from mentioning many of the newer capabilities and products available today. Despite this, the lesson still serves as a valid and basic introduction to how polar-orbiting satellites operate.
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