Retrieving Cloud Ice Water, Cloud Liquid Water, and other Cloud Parameters from GPS Radio Occultation and Satellite Microwave Imager/Sounder in Heavy

ABSTRACT: The Science and Technology in Atmospheric Research (STAR) LLC in Boulder, with scientific support from National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) is proposing to conduct research and development in the field of IWC and CLW estimation from GPSRO and satellite microwave radiances. Key to the success of GPS RO inversions is the prior knowledge of cloud properties (rain, cloud liquid content, ice, etc.). STAR will apply its knowledge and expertise in cloud data assimilation with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to provide better estimates of cloud fields, so that GPSRO retrievals can be performed in better conditions. NCAR"s WRF Data Assimilation is an advanced modeling system that can ingest and extract information from a variety of observing systems and, in particular, from microwave satellite radiances, such as SSMI/S. Variational assimilation of observations is a unique and convenient mean to produce physically consistent retrievals on three-dimensional regular grids. Accuracy of IWC and CLW retrievals will be estimated and their potential impact for improving radiative transfer calculations will be assessed. BENEFIT: Improved cloud products retrievals from the coming COSMIC-2 mission, which in turn will improve polarized radiative transfer calculations needed for various sensors used by the Air Force.