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International Workshop on the
Assimilation of Satellite-Observed Cloud and Precipitation Observations

May 2-4, 2005 Program

Workshop Summary Presentation (PDF, 3MB)

Sponsored by the NOAA, NASA, Department of Defense, Joint Center for Satellite Data Assimilation

The Problem: To date, assimilation of satellite measurements has focused on the clear atmosphere. But satellite observations in the visible, infrared, and microwave provide a great deal of information on clouds and precipitation. The issue is how to use this information to improve the initialization of clouds and precipitation in models. Since clouds and precipitation often occur in sensitive regions for forecast impacts, such improvements are likely necessary for continuing significant gains in weather forecasting.

Workshop Objectives:

• Critically review the current state of the art in:
  • Satellite observations of clouds and precipitation
  • Modeling of clouds an precipitation in NWP
  • Assimilating satellite observations of clouds and precipitation
• Identify the key issues for successful assimilation of cloud and precipitation information
• Develop a prioritized list of additional examinations of issues, further evaluations of techniques, and needed new developments
• Plan coordination mechanisms to facilitate progress on needed developments

How: By bringing together experts in: cloud/precipitation remote sensing, radiative transfer in cloudy or precipitating atmospheres, modeling clouds and precipitation, and assimilating cloud and precipitation observations.

Where:	National Conference Center, Lansdowne, VA
When:	May 2-4, 2005
Duration:	2.5 days [See PROGRAM]
Who:	30-40 invitees
Workshop format:	Invited overview lectures, shorter talks, breakout groups **
Output:	A workshop report that will summarize workshop deliberations and include a prioritized list of needed research and development, plans of the various groups, and how these groups could better coordinate their activities.
Organizing Committee:	Ron Errico, NASA/GMAO, Co-Chair George Ohring, Consultant, Co-Chair Fuzhong Weng, NOAA/NESDIS Jean-Francois Mahfouf , Meteorological Service of Canada Joe Turk, NRL Peter Bauer, ECMWF Ken Campana, NOAA/NCEP