Articles | Volume 15, issue 9
https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-15-3011-2022
© Author(s) 2022. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-15-3011-2022
© Author(s) 2022. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Research article
| 
16 May 2022
Research article |
| 16 May 2022
| 16 May 2022
Observation error analysis for the WInd VElocity Radar Nephoscope W-band Doppler conically scanning spaceborne radar via end-to-end simulations
Alessandro Battaglia
CORRESPONDING AUTHOR
Department of Environment, Land and Infrastructure Engineering, Politecnico of Torino, Torino, Italy
Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
National Centre for Earth Observation, Leicester, UK
Paolo Martire
Department of Environment, Land and Infrastructure Engineering, Politecnico of Torino, Torino, Italy
Eric Caubet
Thales Alenia Space, Toulouse, France
Laurent Phalippou
Thales Alenia Space, Toulouse, France
Fabrizio Stesina
Department of Environment, Land and Infrastructure Engineering, Politecnico of Torino, Torino, Italy
Pavlos Kollias
Department of Environmental and Climate Sciences, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, NY, USA
Division of Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
Anthony Illingworth
Department of Meteorology, University of Reading, Reading, UK
Related authors
Filippo Emilio Scarsi, Alessandro Battaglia, Maximilian Maahn, and Stef Lhermitte
The Cryosphere, 19, 4875–4892, https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-19-4875-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-19-4875-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Snowfall measurements at high latitudes are crucial for estimating ice sheet mass balance. Spaceborne radar and radiometer missions help estimate snowfall but face uncertainties. This work evaluates uncertainties in snowfall estimates from a fixed near-nadir radar (CloudSat-like) and a conically scanning radar (WIVERN-like), showing that a WIVERN-like radar will provide better estimates than a CloudSat-like radar at smaller spatial and temporal scales.
Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, Pavlos Kollias, Alessandro Battaglia, Simone Tanelli, and Hirotaka Nakatsuka
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 18, 5607–5618, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-5607-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-5607-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
We investigate how seasonal solar illumination affects the pointing accuracy of EarthCARE’s cloud profile radar (CPR) antenna and introduce a correction based on surface Doppler measurements. The correction improves measurement accuracy by reducing Doppler velocity biases to within 5 and 7 cm s−1. Our results demonstrate the importance of continuous pointing characterization to maintain the scientific accuracy of EarthCARE’s CPR Doppler observations.
Marco Coppola, Alessandro Battaglia, Frederic Tridon, and Pavlos Kollias
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 18, 5071–5085, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-5071-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-5071-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The WIVERN (WInd Velocity Radar Nephoscope) conically scanning Doppler W-band radar has the potential, for the first time, to map the mesoscale and synoptic variability of cloud dynamics and precipitation microphysics. This study shows that the oblique angle of incidence will be advantageous compared to standard nadir-looking radars due to substantial clutter suppression over the ocean surface. This feature will enable the detection and quantification of light and moderate precipitation, with improved proximity to the surface.
Ioanna Tsikoudi, Alessandro Battaglia, Christine Unal, and Eleni Marinou
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 18, 4857–4870, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-4857-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-4857-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
In the study, we simulate spectral polarimetric variables for raindrops as observed by cloud radar. Raindrops are modeled as oblate spheroids, and backscattering properties are computed via the T-matrix method, including noise, turbulence, and spectral averaging effects. When comparing simulations with measurements, differences in the amplitudes of polarimetric variables are noted. This shows the challenge of using simplified shapes to model raindrop polarimetric variables when moving to millimeter wavelengths.
Karina McCusker, Chris Westbrook, Alessandro Battaglia, Kamil Mroz, Benjamin M. Courtier, Peter G. Huggard, Hui Wang, Richard Reeves, Christopher J. Walden, Richard Cotton, Stuart Fox, and Anthony J. Baran
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-3974, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-3974, 2025
This preprint is open for discussion and under review for Atmospheric Measurement Techniques (AMT).
Short summary
Short summary
This work presents the first known retrievals of ice cloud and snowfall properties using G-band radar, representing a major step forward in the use of high-frequency radar for atmospheric remote sensing. We present theory and simulations to show that ice water content (IWC) and snowfall rate (S) can be retrieved efficiently with a single frequency G-band radar if the mass of a wavelength-sized particle is known or can be assumed, while details of the particle size distribution are not required.
Susmitha Sasikumar, Alessandro Battaglia, Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, and Pavlos Kollias
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-3573, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-3573, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The study present a method to estimate how much the radar signal is weakened as it passes through rain or clouds, designed to implement in the new EarthCARE satellite cloud profiling radar data. The approach builds on the method used in the CloudSat mission, with key improvements that make it robust under non-ideal instrument conditions in the early mission phase. This leads to more reliable retrieval of clouds and rainfall during initial satellite operations.
Nina Maherndl, Alessandro Battaglia, Anton Kötsche, and Maximilian Maahn
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 18, 3287–3304, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-3287-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-3287-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Accurate measurements of ice water content (IWC) and snowfall rate (SR) are challenging due to high spatial variability and limitations of our measurement techniques. Here, we present a novel method to derive IWC and SR from W-band cloud radar observations, considering the degree of riming. We also investigate the use of the liquid water path (LWP) as a proxy for the occurrence of riming. LWP is easier to measure, so that the method can be applied to both ground-based and space-based instruments.
Stefano Federico, Rosa Claudia Torcasio, Claudio Transerici, Mario Montopoli, Cinzia Cambiotti, Francesco Manconi, Alessandro Battaglia, and Maryam Pourshamsi
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2095, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2095, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The Wind Velocity Radar Nephoscope (WIVERN) mission will be the first space-based mission to provide global in-cloud wind, cloud and precipitation measurements. The mission is proposed as a candidate for the ESA Earth Explorer 11. Its data could be beneficial to several sectors, including numerical weather prediction performance enhancement. This paper aims to contribute to the last point by analyzing the impact that WIVERN would have in the case of a Tropical-like cyclone event.
Jiseob Kim, Pavlos Kollias, Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, Alessandro Battaglia, and Ivy Tan
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2697, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2697, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The EarthCARE satellite’s Cloud Profiling Radar (CPR) can now measure how fast particles fall within clouds from space. In this study, we compared these new satellite measurements with ground-based radar data and found that, after proper corrections, the CPR gives reliable results, especially in ice clouds. This means scientists can confidently use EarthCARE data to better understand clouds and improve weather and climate predictions.
Francesco Manconi, Alessandro Battaglia, and Pavlos Kollias
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 18, 2295–2310, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-2295-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-2295-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The paper aims to study the ground reflection, or clutter, of the signal from a spaceborne radar in the context of ESA's WIVERN (WInd VElocity Radar Nephoscop) mission, which will observe in-cloud winds. Using topography and land type data, with a model of the satellite orbit and rotating antenna, simulations of scans have been run over the Piedmont region of Italy. These measurements cover the full range of the ground clutter over land for WIVERN and have allowed for analyses of the precision and accuracy of velocity observations.
Aida Galfione, Alessandro Battaglia, Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, and Pavlos Kollias
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-1914, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-1914, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Convection drives atmospheric circulation but is difficult to observe and model. EarthCARE's radar provides the first space-based vertical wind data, capturing updrafts and downdrafts. Combined with satellite imagery from other sensors, it offers a broader view of convective storms. While resolution limits detail, cloud-top cooling helps track storm development. This combined approach improves understanding and modeling of convection.
Benjamin M. Courtier, Alessandro Battaglia, and Kamil Mroz
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 6875–6888, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-6875-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-6875-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
A new millimetre-wavelength radar is used to improve methods of retrieving information about the smallest droplets that exist within clouds. The radar is shown to be able to retrieve the vertical wind speed more accurately and more frequently and to retrieve the cloud properties for clouds with lower rainfall rates and smaller droplets than would be possible using longer-wavelength radars.
Kamil Mroz, Alessandro Battaglia, and Ann M. Fridlind
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 1577–1597, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-1577-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-1577-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
In this study, we examine the extent to which radar measurements from space can inform us about the properties of clouds and precipitation. Surprisingly, our analysis showed that the amount of ice turning into rain was lower than expected in the current product. To improve on this, we came up with a new way to extract information about the size and concentration of particles from radar data. As long as we use this method in the right conditions, we can even estimate how dense the ice is.
Filippo Emilio Scarsi, Alessandro Battaglia, Frederic Tridon, Paolo Martire, Ranvir Dhillon, and Anthony Illingworth
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 499–514, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-499-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-499-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
The WIVERN mission, one of the two candidates to be the ESA's Earth Explorer 11 mission, aims at providing measurements of horizontal winds in cloud and precipitation systems through a conically scanning W-band Doppler radar. This work discusses four methods that can be used to characterize and correct the Doppler velocity error induced by the antenna mispointing. The proposed methodologies can be extended to other Doppler concepts featuring conically scanning or slant viewing Doppler systems.
Alessandro Battaglia, Filippo Emilio Scarsi, Kamil Mroz, and Anthony Illingworth
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 3283–3297, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-3283-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-3283-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Some of the new generation of cloud and precipitation spaceborne radars will adopt conical scanning. This will make some of the standard calibration techniques impractical. This work presents a methodology to cross-calibrate radars in orbits by matching the reflectivity probability density function of ice clouds observed by the to-be-calibrated and by the reference radar in quasi-coincident locations. Results show that cross-calibration within 1 dB (26 %) is feasible.
Kamil Mroz, Bernat Puidgomènech Treserras, Alessandro Battaglia, Pavlos Kollias, Aleksandra Tatarevic, and Frederic Tridon
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 2865–2888, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-2865-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-2865-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
We present the theoretical basis of the algorithm that estimates the amount of water and size of particles in clouds and precipitation. The algorithm uses data collected by the Cloud Profiling Radar that was developed for the upcoming Earth Clouds, Aerosols and Radiation Explorer (EarthCARE) satellite mission. After the satellite launch, the vertical distribution of cloud and precipitation properties will be delivered as the C-CLD product.
Pavlos Kollias, Bernat Puidgomènech Treserras, Alessandro Battaglia, Paloma C. Borque, and Aleksandra Tatarevic
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 1901–1914, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-1901-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-1901-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The Earth Clouds, Aerosols and Radiation (EarthCARE) satellite mission developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) features the first spaceborne 94 GHz Doppler cloud-profiling radar (CPR) with Doppler capability. Here, we describe the post-processing algorithms that apply quality control and corrections to CPR measurements and derive key geophysical variables such as hydrometeor locations and best estimates of particle sedimentation fall velocities.
Frederic Tridon, Israel Silber, Alessandro Battaglia, Stefan Kneifel, Ann Fridlind, Petros Kalogeras, and Ranvir Dhillon
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 12467–12491, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-12467-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-12467-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
The role of ice precipitation in the Earth water budget is not well known because ice particles are complex, and their formation involves intricate processes. Riming of ice crystals by supercooled water droplets is an efficient process, but little is known about its importance at high latitudes. In this work, by exploiting the deployment of an unprecedented number of remote sensing systems in Antarctica, we find that riming occurs at much lower temperatures compared with the mid-latitudes.
Alessandro Battaglia
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 14, 7809–7820, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-14-7809-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-14-7809-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
Space-borne radar returns can be contaminated by artefacts caused by radiation that undergoes multiple scattering events and appears to originate from ranges well below the surface range. While such artefacts have been rarely observed from the currently deployed systems, they may become a concern in future cloud radar systems, potentially enhancing cloud cover high up in the troposphere via ghost returns.
Filippo Emilio Scarsi, Alessandro Battaglia, Maximilian Maahn, and Stef Lhermitte
The Cryosphere, 19, 4875–4892, https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-19-4875-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-19-4875-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Snowfall measurements at high latitudes are crucial for estimating ice sheet mass balance. Spaceborne radar and radiometer missions help estimate snowfall but face uncertainties. This work evaluates uncertainties in snowfall estimates from a fixed near-nadir radar (CloudSat-like) and a conically scanning radar (WIVERN-like), showing that a WIVERN-like radar will provide better estimates than a CloudSat-like radar at smaller spatial and temporal scales.
Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, Pavlos Kollias, Alessandro Battaglia, Simone Tanelli, and Hirotaka Nakatsuka
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 18, 5607–5618, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-5607-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-5607-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
We investigate how seasonal solar illumination affects the pointing accuracy of EarthCARE’s cloud profile radar (CPR) antenna and introduce a correction based on surface Doppler measurements. The correction improves measurement accuracy by reducing Doppler velocity biases to within 5 and 7 cm s−1. Our results demonstrate the importance of continuous pointing characterization to maintain the scientific accuracy of EarthCARE’s CPR Doppler observations.
Nitika Yadlapalli Yurk, Matt D. Lebsock, Juan M. Socuellamos, Raquel Rodriguez Monje, Ken B. Cooper, and Pavlos Kollias
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 18, 5141–5155, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-5141-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-5141-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Current knowledge of the link between clouds and climate is limited by a lack of observations of the drop size distribution (DSD) within clouds, especially for the smallest drops. We demonstrate a method of retrieving DSDs down to small drop sizes using observations of drizzling marine layer clouds captured by the CloudCube millimeter-wave Doppler radar. We compare the shape of the observed spectra to theoretical expectations of radar echoes to solve for DSDs at each time step and elevation.
Marco Coppola, Alessandro Battaglia, Frederic Tridon, and Pavlos Kollias
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 18, 5071–5085, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-5071-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-5071-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The WIVERN (WInd Velocity Radar Nephoscope) conically scanning Doppler W-band radar has the potential, for the first time, to map the mesoscale and synoptic variability of cloud dynamics and precipitation microphysics. This study shows that the oblique angle of incidence will be advantageous compared to standard nadir-looking radars due to substantial clutter suppression over the ocean surface. This feature will enable the detection and quantification of light and moderate precipitation, with improved proximity to the surface.
Ioanna Tsikoudi, Alessandro Battaglia, Christine Unal, and Eleni Marinou
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 18, 4857–4870, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-4857-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-4857-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
In the study, we simulate spectral polarimetric variables for raindrops as observed by cloud radar. Raindrops are modeled as oblate spheroids, and backscattering properties are computed via the T-matrix method, including noise, turbulence, and spectral averaging effects. When comparing simulations with measurements, differences in the amplitudes of polarimetric variables are noted. This shows the challenge of using simplified shapes to model raindrop polarimetric variables when moving to millimeter wavelengths.
Karina McCusker, Chris Westbrook, Alessandro Battaglia, Kamil Mroz, Benjamin M. Courtier, Peter G. Huggard, Hui Wang, Richard Reeves, Christopher J. Walden, Richard Cotton, Stuart Fox, and Anthony J. Baran
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-3974, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-3974, 2025
This preprint is open for discussion and under review for Atmospheric Measurement Techniques (AMT).
Short summary
Short summary
This work presents the first known retrievals of ice cloud and snowfall properties using G-band radar, representing a major step forward in the use of high-frequency radar for atmospheric remote sensing. We present theory and simulations to show that ice water content (IWC) and snowfall rate (S) can be retrieved efficiently with a single frequency G-band radar if the mass of a wavelength-sized particle is known or can be assumed, while details of the particle size distribution are not required.
Susmitha Sasikumar, Alessandro Battaglia, Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, and Pavlos Kollias
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-3573, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-3573, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The study present a method to estimate how much the radar signal is weakened as it passes through rain or clouds, designed to implement in the new EarthCARE satellite cloud profiling radar data. The approach builds on the method used in the CloudSat mission, with key improvements that make it robust under non-ideal instrument conditions in the early mission phase. This leads to more reliable retrieval of clouds and rainfall during initial satellite operations.
Nina Maherndl, Alessandro Battaglia, Anton Kötsche, and Maximilian Maahn
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 18, 3287–3304, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-3287-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-3287-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Accurate measurements of ice water content (IWC) and snowfall rate (SR) are challenging due to high spatial variability and limitations of our measurement techniques. Here, we present a novel method to derive IWC and SR from W-band cloud radar observations, considering the degree of riming. We also investigate the use of the liquid water path (LWP) as a proxy for the occurrence of riming. LWP is easier to measure, so that the method can be applied to both ground-based and space-based instruments.
Stefano Federico, Rosa Claudia Torcasio, Claudio Transerici, Mario Montopoli, Cinzia Cambiotti, Francesco Manconi, Alessandro Battaglia, and Maryam Pourshamsi
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2095, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2095, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The Wind Velocity Radar Nephoscope (WIVERN) mission will be the first space-based mission to provide global in-cloud wind, cloud and precipitation measurements. The mission is proposed as a candidate for the ESA Earth Explorer 11. Its data could be beneficial to several sectors, including numerical weather prediction performance enhancement. This paper aims to contribute to the last point by analyzing the impact that WIVERN would have in the case of a Tropical-like cyclone event.
Zackary Mages, Pavlos Kollias, Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, Paloma Borque, and Mariko Oue
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 6025–6045, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-6025-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-6025-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Convective clouds are a key component of the climate system. Using remote sensing observations during two field experiments in Houston, Texas, we identify four diurnal patterns of shallow convective clouds. We find areas more frequently experiencing shallow convective clouds, and we find areas where the vertical extent of shallow convective clouds is higher and where they are more likely to precipitate. This provides insight into the complicated environment that forms these clouds in Houston.
Jiseob Kim, Pavlos Kollias, Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, Alessandro Battaglia, and Ivy Tan
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2697, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2697, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The EarthCARE satellite’s Cloud Profiling Radar (CPR) can now measure how fast particles fall within clouds from space. In this study, we compared these new satellite measurements with ground-based radar data and found that, after proper corrections, the CPR gives reliable results, especially in ice clouds. This means scientists can confidently use EarthCARE data to better understand clouds and improve weather and climate predictions.
Francesco Manconi, Alessandro Battaglia, and Pavlos Kollias
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 18, 2295–2310, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-2295-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-2295-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The paper aims to study the ground reflection, or clutter, of the signal from a spaceborne radar in the context of ESA's WIVERN (WInd VElocity Radar Nephoscop) mission, which will observe in-cloud winds. Using topography and land type data, with a model of the satellite orbit and rotating antenna, simulations of scans have been run over the Piedmont region of Italy. These measurements cover the full range of the ground clutter over land for WIVERN and have allowed for analyses of the precision and accuracy of velocity observations.
Jialin Yan, Mariko Oue, Pavlos Kollias, Edward Luke, and Fan Yang
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2149, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2149, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
In this study, we analyzed over six years of ground-based radar and weather balloon data collected in northern Alaska. We found that ice particle changes depend strongly on temperature, humidity conditions and turbulence. We also found that turbulence and the presence of supercooled liquid water often occur together, and when they do, ice particle growth is especially strong. These findings help scientists to improve weather models.
Aida Galfione, Alessandro Battaglia, Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, and Pavlos Kollias
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-1914, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-1914, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Convection drives atmospheric circulation but is difficult to observe and model. EarthCARE's radar provides the first space-based vertical wind data, capturing updrafts and downdrafts. Combined with satellite imagery from other sensors, it offers a broader view of convective storms. While resolution limits detail, cloud-top cooling helps track storm development. This combined approach improves understanding and modeling of convection.
Sarah Wugofski, Matthew R. Kumjian, Mariko Oue, and Pavlos Kollias
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-671, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-671, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Doppler spectral data inform on how particles of varying vertical velocities contribute to total backscattered power observed. Through examining three case studies, consistent features in radar moment data were found to be characteristic of multi-modal spectra. We quantified how spectrum width and mean Doppler velocity can be used to determine whether or not a layer is multi-modal. The identification criteria and methods are described in Part 1 and assessed in Part 2.
Lukas Pfitzenmaier, Pavlos Kollias, Nils Risse, Imke Schirmacher, Bernat Puigdomenech Treserras, and Katia Lamer
Geosci. Model Dev., 18, 101–115, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-18-101-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-18-101-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The Python tool Orbital-Radar transfers suborbital radar data (ground-based, airborne, and forward-simulated numerical weather prediction model) into synthetic spaceborne cloud profiling radar data, mimicking platform-specific instrument characteristics, e.g. EarthCARE or CloudSat. The tool's novelty lies in simulating characteristic errors and instrument noise. Thus, existing data sets are transferred into synthetic observations and can be used for satellite calibration–validation studies.
Juan M. Socuellamos, Raquel Rodriguez Monje, Matthew D. Lebsock, Ken B. Cooper, and Pavlos Kollias
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 6965–6981, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-6965-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-6965-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
This article presents a novel technique to estimate liquid water content (LWC) profiles in shallow warm clouds using a pair of collocated Ka-band (35 GHz) and G-band (239 GHz) radars. We demonstrate that the use of a G-band radar allows retrieving the LWC with 3 times better accuracy than previous works reported in the literature, providing improved ability to understand the vertical profile of LWC and characterize microphysical and dynamical processes more precisely in shallow clouds.
Benjamin M. Courtier, Alessandro Battaglia, and Kamil Mroz
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 6875–6888, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-6875-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-6875-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
A new millimetre-wavelength radar is used to improve methods of retrieving information about the smallest droplets that exist within clouds. The radar is shown to be able to retrieve the vertical wind speed more accurately and more frequently and to retrieve the cloud properties for clouds with lower rainfall rates and smaller droplets than would be possible using longer-wavelength radars.
Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras and Pavlos Kollias
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 6301–6314, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-6301-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-6301-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
The paper presents a comprehensive approach to improve the geolocation accuracy of spaceborne radar and lidar systems, crucial for the successful interpretation of data from the upcoming EarthCARE mission. The paper details the technical background of the presented methods and various examples of geolocation analyses, including a short period of CloudSat observations when the star tracker was not operating properly and lifetime statistics from the CloudSat and CALIPSO missions.
Robin J. Hogan, Anthony J. Illingworth, Pavlos Kollias, Hajime Okamoto, and Ulla Wandinger
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 3081–3083, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-3081-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-3081-2024, 2024
Kristofer S. Tuftedal, Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, Mariko Oue, and Pavlos Kollias
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 5637–5657, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-5637-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-5637-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
This study analyzed coastal convective cells from June through September 2018–2021. The cells were classified and their lifecycles were analyzed to better understand their characteristics. Features such as convective-core growth, for example, are shown. The study found differences in the initiation location of shallow convection and in the aerosol loading in deep convective environments. This work provides a foundation for future analyses of convection or other tracked events elsewhere.
Kamil Mroz, Alessandro Battaglia, and Ann M. Fridlind
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 1577–1597, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-1577-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-1577-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
In this study, we examine the extent to which radar measurements from space can inform us about the properties of clouds and precipitation. Surprisingly, our analysis showed that the amount of ice turning into rain was lower than expected in the current product. To improve on this, we came up with a new way to extract information about the size and concentration of particles from radar data. As long as we use this method in the right conditions, we can even estimate how dense the ice is.
Zeen Zhu, Fan Yang, Pavlos Kollias, Raymond A. Shaw, Alex B. Kostinski, Steve Krueger, Katia Lamer, Nithin Allwayin, and Mariko Oue
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 1133–1143, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-1133-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-1133-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
In this article, we demonstrate the feasibility of applying advanced radar technology to detect liquid droplets generated in the cloud chamber. Specifically, we show that using radar with centimeter-scale resolution, single drizzle drops with a diameter larger than 40 µm can be detected. This study demonstrates the applicability of remote sensing instruments in laboratory experiments and suggests new applications of ultrahigh-resolution radar for atmospheric sensing.
Shannon L. Mason, Howard W. Barker, Jason N. S. Cole, Nicole Docter, David P. Donovan, Robin J. Hogan, Anja Hünerbein, Pavlos Kollias, Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, Zhipeng Qu, Ulla Wandinger, and Gerd-Jan van Zadelhoff
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 875–898, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-875-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-875-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
When the EarthCARE mission enters its operational phase, many retrieval data products will be available, which will overlap both in terms of the measurements they use and the geophysical quantities they report. In this pre-launch study, we use simulated EarthCARE scenes to compare the coverage and performance of many data products from the European Space Agency production model, with the intention of better understanding the relation between products and providing a compact guide to users.
Filippo Emilio Scarsi, Alessandro Battaglia, Frederic Tridon, Paolo Martire, Ranvir Dhillon, and Anthony Illingworth
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 499–514, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-499-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-499-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
The WIVERN mission, one of the two candidates to be the ESA's Earth Explorer 11 mission, aims at providing measurements of horizontal winds in cloud and precipitation systems through a conically scanning W-band Doppler radar. This work discusses four methods that can be used to characterize and correct the Doppler velocity error induced by the antenna mispointing. The proposed methodologies can be extended to other Doppler concepts featuring conically scanning or slant viewing Doppler systems.
David P. Donovan, Pavlos Kollias, Almudena Velázquez Blázquez, and Gerd-Jan van Zadelhoff
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 5327–5356, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-5327-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-5327-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The Earth Cloud, Aerosol and Radiation Explorer mission (EarthCARE) is a multi-instrument cloud–aerosol–radiation-oriented satellite for climate and weather applications. For this satellite mission to be successful, the development and implementation of new techniques for turning the measured raw signals into useful data is required. This paper describes how atmospheric model data were used as the basis for creating realistic high-resolution simulated data sets to facilitate this process.
Imke Schirmacher, Pavlos Kollias, Katia Lamer, Mario Mech, Lukas Pfitzenmaier, Manfred Wendisch, and Susanne Crewell
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 4081–4100, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-4081-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-4081-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
CloudSat’s relatively coarse spatial resolution, low sensitivity, and blind zone limit its assessment of Arctic low-level clouds, which affect the surface energy balance. We compare cloud fractions from CloudSat and finely resolved airborne radar observations to determine CloudSat’s limitations. Cloudsat overestimates cloud fractions above its blind zone, especially during cold-air outbreaks over open water, and misses a cloud fraction of 32 % and half of the precipitation inside its blind zone.
Zeen Zhu, Pavlos Kollias, and Fan Yang
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 3727–3737, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-3727-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-3727-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
We show that large rain droplets, with large inertia, are unable to follow the rapid change of velocity field in a turbulent environment. A lack of consideration for this inertial effect leads to an artificial broadening of the Doppler spectrum from the conventional simulator. Based on the physics-based simulation, we propose a new approach to generate the radar Doppler spectra. This simulator provides a valuable tool to decode cloud microphysical and dynamical properties from radar observation.
Alessandro Battaglia, Filippo Emilio Scarsi, Kamil Mroz, and Anthony Illingworth
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 3283–3297, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-3283-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-3283-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Some of the new generation of cloud and precipitation spaceborne radars will adopt conical scanning. This will make some of the standard calibration techniques impractical. This work presents a methodology to cross-calibrate radars in orbits by matching the reflectivity probability density function of ice clouds observed by the to-be-calibrated and by the reference radar in quasi-coincident locations. Results show that cross-calibration within 1 dB (26 %) is feasible.
Kamil Mroz, Bernat Puidgomènech Treserras, Alessandro Battaglia, Pavlos Kollias, Aleksandra Tatarevic, and Frederic Tridon
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 2865–2888, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-2865-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-2865-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
We present the theoretical basis of the algorithm that estimates the amount of water and size of particles in clouds and precipitation. The algorithm uses data collected by the Cloud Profiling Radar that was developed for the upcoming Earth Clouds, Aerosols and Radiation Explorer (EarthCARE) satellite mission. After the satellite launch, the vertical distribution of cloud and precipitation properties will be delivered as the C-CLD product.
Abdanour Irbah, Julien Delanoë, Gerd-Jan van Zadelhoff, David P. Donovan, Pavlos Kollias, Bernat Puigdomènech Treserras, Shannon Mason, Robin J. Hogan, and Aleksandra Tatarevic
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 2795–2820, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-2795-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-2795-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The Cloud Profiling Radar (CPR) and ATmospheric LIDar (ATLID) aboard the EarthCARE satellite are used to probe the Earth's atmosphere by measuring cloud and aerosol profiles. ATLID is sensitive to aerosols and small cloud particles and CPR to large ice particles, snowflakes and raindrops. It is the synergy of the measurements of these two instruments that allows a better classification of the atmospheric targets and the description of the associated products, which are the subject of this paper.
Pavlos Kollias, Bernat Puidgomènech Treserras, Alessandro Battaglia, Paloma C. Borque, and Aleksandra Tatarevic
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 1901–1914, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-1901-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-1901-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The Earth Clouds, Aerosols and Radiation (EarthCARE) satellite mission developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) features the first spaceborne 94 GHz Doppler cloud-profiling radar (CPR) with Doppler capability. Here, we describe the post-processing algorithms that apply quality control and corrections to CPR measurements and derive key geophysical variables such as hydrometeor locations and best estimates of particle sedimentation fall velocities.
Zackary Mages, Pavlos Kollias, Zeen Zhu, and Edward P. Luke
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 3561–3574, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-3561-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-3561-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Cold-air outbreaks (when cold air is advected over warm water and creates low-level convection) are a dominant cloud regime in the Arctic, and we capitalized on ground-based observations, which did not previously exist, from the COMBLE field campaign to study them. We characterized the extent and strength of the convection and turbulence and found evidence of secondary ice production. This information is useful for model intercomparison studies that will represent cold-air outbreak processes.
Simone Kotthaus, Juan Antonio Bravo-Aranda, Martine Collaud Coen, Juan Luis Guerrero-Rascado, Maria João Costa, Domenico Cimini, Ewan J. O'Connor, Maxime Hervo, Lucas Alados-Arboledas, María Jiménez-Portaz, Lucia Mona, Dominique Ruffieux, Anthony Illingworth, and Martial Haeffelin
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 433–479, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-433-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-433-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Profile observations of the atmospheric boundary layer now allow for layer heights and characteristics to be derived at high temporal and vertical resolution. With novel high-density ground-based remote-sensing measurement networks emerging, horizontal information content is also increasing. This review summarises the capabilities and limitations of various sensors and retrieval algorithms which need to be considered during the harmonisation of data products for high-impact applications.
Frederic Tridon, Israel Silber, Alessandro Battaglia, Stefan Kneifel, Ann Fridlind, Petros Kalogeras, and Ranvir Dhillon
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 12467–12491, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-12467-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-12467-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
The role of ice precipitation in the Earth water budget is not well known because ice particles are complex, and their formation involves intricate processes. Riming of ice crystals by supercooled water droplets is an efficient process, but little is known about its importance at high latitudes. In this work, by exploiting the deployment of an unprecedented number of remote sensing systems in Antarctica, we find that riming occurs at much lower temperatures compared with the mid-latitudes.
Mariko Oue, Stephen M. Saleeby, Peter J. Marinescu, Pavlos Kollias, and Susan C. van den Heever
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 15, 4931–4950, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-15-4931-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-15-4931-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
This study provides an optimization of radar observation strategies to better capture convective cell evolution in clean and polluted environments as well as a technique for the optimization. The suggested optimized radar observation strategy is to better capture updrafts at middle and upper altitudes and precipitation particle evolution of isolated deep convective clouds. This study sheds light on the challenge of designing remote sensing observation strategies in pre-field campaign periods.
Zeen Zhu, Pavlos Kollias, Edward Luke, and Fan Yang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 7405–7416, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-7405-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-7405-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
Drizzle (small rain droplets) is an important component of warm clouds; however, its existence is poorly understood. In this study, we capitalized on a machine-learning algorithm to develop a drizzle detection method. We applied this algorithm to investigate drizzle occurrence and found out that drizzle is far more ubiquitous than previously thought. This study demonstrates the ubiquitous nature of drizzle in clouds and will improve understanding of the associated microphysical process.
Alessandro Battaglia
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 14, 7809–7820, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-14-7809-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-14-7809-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
Space-borne radar returns can be contaminated by artefacts caused by radiation that undergoes multiple scattering events and appears to originate from ranges well below the surface range. While such artefacts have been rarely observed from the currently deployed systems, they may become a concern in future cloud radar systems, potentially enhancing cloud cover high up in the troposphere via ghost returns.
Sonja Drueke, Daniel J. Kirshbaum, and Pavlos Kollias
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 14039–14058, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14039-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14039-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
This numerical study provides insights into the sensitivity of shallow-cumulus dilution to geostrophic vertical wind profile. The cumulus dilution is strongly sensitive to vertical wind shear in the cloud layer, with shallow cumuli being more diluted in sheared environments. On the other hand, wind shear in the subcloud layer leads to less diluted cumuli. The sensitivities are explained by jointly considering the impacts of vertical velocity and the properties of the entrained air.
Mariko Oue, Pavlos Kollias, Sergey Y. Matrosov, Alessandro Battaglia, and Alexander V. Ryzhkov
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 14, 4893–4913, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-14-4893-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-14-4893-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
Multi-wavelength radar measurements provide capabilities to identify ice particle types and growth processes in clouds beyond the capabilities of single-frequency radar measurements. This study introduces Doppler velocity and polarimetric radar observables into the multi-wavelength radar reflectivity measurement to improve identification analysis. The analysis clearly discerns snowflake aggregation and riming processes and even early stages of riming.
Katia Lamer, Mariko Oue, Alessandro Battaglia, Richard J. Roy, Ken B. Cooper, Ranvir Dhillon, and Pavlos Kollias
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 14, 3615–3629, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-14-3615-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-14-3615-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
Observations collected during the 25 February 2020 deployment of the VIPR at the Stony Brook Radar Observatory clearly demonstrate the potential of G-band radars for cloud and precipitation research. The field experiment, which coordinated an X-, Ka-, W- and G-band radar, revealed that the differential reflectivity from Ka–G band pair provides larger signals than the traditional Ka–W pairing underpinning an increased sensitivity to smaller amounts of liquid and ice water mass and sizes.
Marek Jacob, Pavlos Kollias, Felix Ament, Vera Schemann, and Susanne Crewell
Geosci. Model Dev., 13, 5757–5777, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-13-5757-2020, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-13-5757-2020, 2020
Short summary
Short summary
We compare clouds in different cloud-resolving atmosphere simulations with airborne remote sensing observations. The focus is on warm shallow clouds in the Atlantic trade wind region. Those clouds are climatologically important but challenging for climate models. We use forward operators to apply instrument-specific thresholds for cloud detection to model outputs. In this comparison, the higher-resolution model better reproduces the layered cloud structure.
Sonja Drueke, Daniel J. Kirshbaum, and Pavlos Kollias
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 20, 13217–13239, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-13217-2020, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-13217-2020, 2020
Short summary
Short summary
This numerical study provides insights into selected environmental sensitivities of shallow-cumulus dilution. Among the parameters under consideration, the dilution of the cloud cores is strongly sensitive to continentality and cloud-layer relative humidity and weakly sensitive to subcloud- and cloud-layer depths. The impacts of all four parameters are interpreted using a similarity theory of shallow cumulus and buoyancy-sorting arguments.
Cited articles
Ardhuin, F., Brandt, P., Gaultier, L., Donlon, C., Battaglia, A., Boy, F., Casal, T., Chapron, B., Collard, F., Cravatte, S., Delouis, J.-M., DeWitte, E., Dibarboure, G., Engen, G., Johnsen, H., Lique, C., PacoLopez-Dekker, Maes, C., Martin, A., Mari, L., Menemenlis, D., Nouguier, F., Peureux, C., Rampal, P., Ressler, G., Rio, M.-H., Rommen, B., Shutler, J. D., Suess, M., Tsamados, M., Ubelmann, C., van Sebille, E., van der Vorst, M., and Stammer, D.: SKIM, a candidate satellite mission exploring global ocean currents and waves, Frontiers, 6, https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2019.00209, 2019. a, b
Battaglia, A. and Kollias, P.: Error Analysis of a Conceptual Cloud Doppler
Stereoradar with Polarization Diversity for Better Understanding Space
Applications, J. Atmos. Ocean. Tech., 32, 1298–1319,
https://doi.org/10.1175/JTECH-D-14-00015.1, 2015. a, b, c, d
Battaglia, A. and Panegrossi, G.: What Can We Learn from the CloudSat Radiometric Mode Observations of Snowfall over the Ice-Free Ocean?, Remote Sensing, 12, 3285, https://doi.org/10.3390/rs12203285, 2020. a, b
Battaglia, A. and Tanelli, S.: DOMUS: DOppler MUltiple-Scattering
Simulator, IEEE Trans. Geosci. Remote Sens., 49, 442–450,
https://doi.org/10.1109/TGRS.2010.2052818, 2011. a
Battaglia, A., Prodi, F., Porcu, F., and Shin, D.-B.: Measuring Precipitation from space: EURAINSAT and the future, chap. 3D effects in MW radiative transport inside precipitating clouds: modeling and applications, edited by: Levizzani, V., Bauer, P., and Turk, F. J., Kluwer Academic, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-5835-6, 2005. a
Battaglia, A., Saavedra, P., Rose, T., and Simmer, C.: Characterization of
Precipitating Clouds by Ground-Based Measurements with the Triple-Frequency
Polarized Microwave Radiometer ADMIRARI, J. Appl. Meteorol. Climatol., 49,
394–414, https://doi.org/10.1175/2009JAMC2340.1, 2010a. a
Battaglia, A., Tanelli, S., Kobayashi, S., Zrnic, D., Hogan, R. J., and Simmer, C.: Multiple-scattering in radar systems: A review, J. Quant. Spectrosc. Radiat. Transfer, 111, 917–947,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jqsrt.2009.11.024, 2010b. a
Battaglia, A., Wolde, M., D'Adderio, L. P., Nguyen, C., Fois, F., Illingworth, A., and Midthassel, R.: Characterization of Surface Radar Cross Sections at W-Band at Moderate Incidence Angles, IEEE Trans. Geosci. Remote Sens., 55, 3846–3859, 10.1109/TGRS.2017.2682423, 2017. a
Battaglia, A., Kollias, P., Dhillon, R., Lamer, K., Khairoutdinov, M., and Watters, D.: Mind the gap – Part 2: Improving quantitative estimates of cloud and rain water path in oceanic warm rain using spaceborne radars, Atmos. Meas. Tech., 13, 4865–4883, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-13-4865-2020, 2020a. a
Battaglia, A., Kollias, P., Dhillon, R., Roy, R., Tanelli, S., Lamer, K., Grecu, M., Lebsock, M., Watters, D., Mroz, K., Heymsfield, G., Li, L., and Furukawa, K.: Spaceborne Cloud and Precipitation Radars: Status, Challenges, and Ways Forward, Rev. Geophys., 58, e2019RG000686,
https://doi.org/10.1029/2019RG000686, 2020b. a
Bauer, P., Thorpe, A., and Brunet, G.: The quiet revolution of numerical
weather prediction, Nature, 525, 47–55, https://doi.org/10.1038/nature14956, 2015. a
Dellaripa, E. M. R., Funk, A., Schumacher, C., Bai, H., and Spangehl, T.: Adapting the COSP Radar Simulator to Compare GCM Output and GPM Precipitation
Radar Observations, J. Atmos. Ocean. Tech., 38, 1457–1475,
https://doi.org/10.1175/JTECH-D-20-0089.1, 2021. a
Haynes, J. M., Marchand, R. T., Luo, Z., Bodas-Salcedo, A., and Stephens, G. L.: A Multipurpose Radar Simulation Package: QuickBeam, B. Am. Meteorol.
Soc., 88, 1723–1727, https://doi.org/10.1175/BAMS-88-11-1723, 2007. a
Hogan, R. J. and Battaglia, A.: Fast Lidar and Radar Multiple-Scattering Models. Part II: Wide-Angle Scattering Using the Time-Dependent Two-Stream Approximation, J. Atmos. Sci., 65, 3636–3651, https://doi.org/10.1175/2008JAS2643.1, 2008. a, b
Horanyi, A., Cardinali, C., Rennie, M., and Isaksen, L.: The assimilation of
horizontal line-of-sight wind information into the ECMWF data assimilation
and forecasting system. Part I: The assessment of wind impact, Q. J.
Roy. Meteor. Soc., 141, 1223–1232, https://doi.org/10.1002/qj.2430, 2014. a
Illingworth, A., Battaglia, A., and Delanoe, J.: WIVERN: An ESA Earth Explorer Concept to Map Global in-Cloud Winds, Precipitation and Cloud Properties, in: 2020 IEEE Radar Conference (RadarConf20), 21–25 September 2020, Florence, Italy, 1–6, https://doi.org/10.1109/RadarConf2043947.2020.9266286, 2020. a, b, c, d, e
Illingworth, A. J., Barker, H. W., Beljaars, A., Ceccaldi, M., Chepfer, H., Clerbaux, N., Cole, J., Delanoë, J., Domenech, C., Donovan, D. P., Fukuda, S., Hirakata, M., Hogan, R. J., Huenerbein, A., Kollias, P., Kubota, T., Nakajima, T., Nakajima, T. Y., Nishizawa, T., Ohno, Y., Okamoto, H., Oki, R., Sato, K., Satoh, M., Shephard, M. W., Velázquez-Blázquez, A., Wandinger, U., Wehr, T., and van Zadelhoff, G.-J.: The EarthCARE Satellite: The Next Step Forward in Global Measurements of Clouds, Aerosols, Precipitation, and Radiation, B. Am. Meteorol. Soc., 96, 1311–1332, https://doi.org/10.1175/BAMS-D-12-00227.1, 2015. a
Illingworth, A. J., Battaglia, A., Bradford, J., Forsythe, M., Joe, P., Kollias, P., Lean, K., Lori, M., Mahfouf, J.-F., Melo, S., Midthassel, R., Munro, Y., Nicol, J., Potthast, R., Rennie, M., Stein, T. H. M., Tanelli, S., Tridon, F., Walden, C. J., and Wolde, M.: WIVERN: A New Satellite Concept to Provide Global In-Cloud Winds, Precipitation, and Cloud Properties, B.
Am. Meteorol. Soc., 99, 1669–1687, https://doi.org/10.1175/BAMS-D-16-0047.1, 2018. a, b
Kendon, E. J., Ban, N., Roberts, N. M., Fowler, H. J., Roberts, M. J., Chan, S. C., Evans, J. P., Fosser, G., and Wilkinson, J. M.: Do Convection-Permitting Regional Climate Models Improve Projections of Future Precipitation Change?, B. Am. Meteorol. Soc., 98, 79–93, https://doi.org/10.1175/BAMS-D-15-0004.1, 2017. a
Khairoutdinov, M. F. and Randall, D. A.: Cloud Resolving Modeling of the ARM Summer 1997 IOP: Model Formulation, Results, Uncertainties, and Sensitivities, J. Atmos. Sci., 60, 607–625, https://doi.org/10.1175/1520-0469(2003)060<0607:CRMOTA>2.0.CO;2, 2003. a
Kneifel, S., Leinonen, J., Tyynela, J., Ori, D., and Battaglia, A.: Satellite precipitation measurement, vol. 1 of Adv. Global Change Res., Scattering of Hydrometeors, Springer, ISBN 978-3-030-24567-2, 2020. a
Kobayashi, S., Kumagai, H., and Kuroiwa, H.: A Proposal of Pulse-Pair Doppler Operation on a Spaceborne Cloud-Profiling Radar in the W Band, J. Atmos. Ocean. Tech., 19, 1294–1306, https://doi.org/10.1175/1520-0426(2002)019<1294:APOPPD>2.0.CO;2, 2002. a
Kollias, P., Tanelli, S., Battaglia, A., and Tatarevic, A.: Evaluation of EarthCARE Cloud Profiling Radar Doppler Velocity Measurements in Particle Sedimentation Regimes, J. Atmos. Ocean. Tech., 31, 366–386, https://doi.org/10.1175/JTECH-D-11-00202.1, 2014. a, b, c
Kummerow, C.: On the accuracy of the Eddington approximation for radiative transfer in the microwave frequencies, J. Geophys. Res., 98, 2757–2765, 1993. a
Lhermitte, R.: Attenuation and Scattering of Millimeter Wavelength Radiation by Clouds and Precipitation, J. Atmos. Ocean. Tech., 7, 464–479, https://doi.org/10.1175/1520-0426(1990)007<0464:AASOMW>2.0.CO;2, 1990. a
Marshall, J. S. and Palmer, W. M.: The distribution of raindrops with size, J. Meteorol., 5, 165–166, 1948. a
Matsui, T., Iguchi, T., Li, X., Han, M., Tao, W.-K., Petersen, W., L'Ecuyer, T., Meneghini, R., Olson, W., Kummerow, C. D., Hou, A. Y., Schwaller, M. R., Stocker, E. F., and Kwiatkowski, J.: GPM Satellite Simulator over Ground Validation Sites, B. Am. Meteorol. Soc., 94, 1653–1660,
https://doi.org/10.1175/BAMS-D-12-00160.1, 2013. a
McNally, A. P.: A note on the occurrence of cloud in meteorologically sensitive areas and the implications for advanced infrared sounders, Q. J. Roy. Meteor. Soc., 128, 2551–2556, 2002. a
Meneghini, R., Kim, H., Liao, L., Kwiatkowski, J., and Iguchi, T.: Path Attenuation Estimates for the GPM Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR), J. Meteorol. Soc. Jpn. Ser. II, 99, 181–200, https://doi.org/10.2151/jmsj.2021-010, 2021. a
Myagkov, A., Kneifel, S., and Rose, T.: Evaluation of the reflectivity calibration of W-band radars based on observations in rain, Atmos. Meas. Tech., 13, 5799–5825, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-13-5799-2020, 2020. a
Pazmany, A. L., Galloway, J. C., Mead, J. B., Popstefanija, I., McIntosh, R. E., and Bluestein, H. W.: Polarization Diversity Pulse-Pair Technique for Millimeter-WaveDoppler Radar Measurements of Severe Storm Features, J. Atmos. Ocean. Tech., 16, 1900–1911, https://doi.org/10.1175/1520-0426(1999)016<1900:PDPPTF>2.0.CO;2, 1999. a, b, c, d, e, f
Prigent, C., Aires, F., Wang, D., Fox, S., and Harlow, C.: Sea-surface emissivity parametrization from microwaves to millimetre waves, Q. J. Roy. Meteor. Soc., 143, 596–605, https://doi.org/10.1002/qj.2953, 2017. a
Rennie, M. P., Isaksen, L., Weiler, F., de Kloe, J., Kanitz, T., and Reitebuch, O.: The impact of Aeolus wind retrievals on ECMWF global weather forecasts, Q. J. Roy. Meteor. Soc., 147, 3555–3586, https://doi.org/10.1002/qj.4142, 2021. a, b, c
Rosenkranz, P. W.: Water vapor microwave continuum absorption: a comparison of measurements and models, Radio Sci., 33, 919–928, 1998. a
Satoh, M., Stevens, B., Judt, F., Khairoutdinov, M., Lin, S. J., Putman, W. M., and Duben, P.: Global cloud-resolving models, Current Climate Change Reports, 5, 172–184, https://doi.org/10.1007/s40641-019-00131-0, 2019. a
Stevens, B., Satoh, M., Auger, L., Biercamp, J., Bretherton, C. S., Chen, X., Düben, P., Judt, F., Khairoutdinov, M., Klocke, D., Kodama, C., Kornblueh, L., Lin, S.-J., Neumann, P., Putman, W. M., Röber, N., Shibuya, R., Vanniere, B., Vidale, P. L., Wedi, N., and Zhou, L.: DYAMOND: the DYnamics of the Atmospheric general circulation Modeled On Non-hydrostatic Domains, Prog. Earth Planet. Sci., 6, 61, https://doi.org/10.1186/s40645-019-0304-z, 2019.
a, b, c
Sy, O. O., Tanelli, S., Takahashi, N., Ohno, Y., Horie, H., and
Kollias, P.: Simulation of EarthCARE Spaceborne Doppler Radar Products
Using Ground-Based and Airborne Data: Effects of Aliasing and Nonuniform
Beam-Filling, IEEE Trans. Geosci. Remote Sens., 52, 1463–1479,
https://doi.org/10.1109/TGRS.2013.2251639, 2014. a, b
Tanelli, S., Im, E., Durden, S. L., Facheris, L., and Giuli, D.: The Effects of Nonuniform Beam Filling on Vertical Rainfall Velocity Measurements with a
Spaceborne Doppler Radar, J. Atmos. Ocean. Tech., 19, 1019–1034,
https://doi.org/10.1175/1520-0426(2002)019<1019:TEONBF>2.0.CO;2, 2002. a, b
Tanelli, S., Im, E., Mascelloni, S. R., and Facheris, L.: Spaceborne Doppler radar measurements of rainfall: correction of errors induced by pointing uncertainties, J. Atmos. Ocean. Tech., 22, 1676–1690, https://doi.org/10.1175/JTECH1797.1, 2005. a
Testud, J., Oury, S., Black, R. A., Amayenc, P., and Dou, X.: The Concept of “Normalized” Distribution to Describe Raindrop Spectra: A Tool for Cloud Physics and Cloud Remote Sensing, J. Appl. Meteorol., 40, 1118–1140, 2001. a
Weiler, F., Rennie, M., Kanitz, T., Isaksen, L., Checa, E., de Kloe, J., Okunde, N., and Reitebuch, O.: Correction of wind bias for the lidar on board Aeolus using telescope temperatures, Atmos. Meas. Tech., 14, 7167–7185, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-14-7167-2021, 2021. a
Short summary
We present an instrument simulator for a new sensor, WIVERN (WInd VElocity Radar Nephoscope), a conically scanning radar payload with Doppler capabilities, recently down-selected as one of the four candidates for the European Space Agency Earth Explorer 11 program. The mission aims at measuring horizontal winds in cloudy areas. The simulator is instrumental in the definition and consolidation of the mission requirements and the evaluation of mission performances.
We present an instrument simulator for a new sensor, WIVERN (WInd VElocity Radar Nephoscope), a...
