Anthony R. Guillory

Retrieval of Geophysical Parameters from GOES: Evaluation of a Split-Window Technique

Abstract The performance of a physical split-window retrieval algorithm used to retrieve skin temperature (ST) and precipitable water (PW) from Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites’ (GOES) infrared measurements is evaluated. The evaluation assesses the potential of using GOES measurements to provide accurate retrieval products for climate research studies. Several algorithm performance issues are addressed, including the time of retrieval (diurnal effects), sensitivity to the first-guess field, and an evaluation of performance differences associated with the split-window channel characteristics of the GOES-7 VISSR (Visible and Infrared Spin Scan Radiometer) Atmospheric Sounder (VAS) and the GOES-8 imager and sounder. The investigation used a mesoscale model, initialized by radiosonde data, to generate a simulated atmosphere representative of a case study characterized by summertime conditions over the east-central United States. Synthetic GOES channel radiances were developed from the surrog...

Analysis of Sudden Mesoscale Drying at the Surface

Abstract Mesoscale surface data and special satellite-derived soundings from the Visible Infrared Spin Scan Radiometer (VISSR) Atmospheric Sounder (VAS) are used to investigate a case of sudden mesoscale drying at the surface on 17 June 1986, a day during the Cooperative Huntsville Meteorological Experiment (COHMEX). Dewpoints fall as much as −6.3°C in less than 1 h over a small portion of central Tennessee. The drying occurs prior to the onset of convective activity. The satellite retrievals detect a narrow tongue of midtropospheric dry air that overlays moist air near the surface. The analyses indicate that heating-induced surface-based mixing penetrates the midlevels, bringing drier air to the surface and resulting in the sudden decreases in surface dewpoints.