Fine Scale Modeling and Forecasts of Upper Atmospheric Turbulence for Operational Use

Intelliware LLC proposes to investigate under Phase 1 of the STTR Program the development of a fine scale forecast model capability that will provide a technologically superior, high resolution atmospheric decision tool to accurately predict areas of clear air turbulence in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS). Accurate real time knowledge of the dynamics in the UTLS is needed to support UAVs and operations in high impact turbulence environments. Among the new capabilities required are improved physics based modeling and nesting to integrate models of disparate scales. We will develop fast and scalable numerical algorithms and solvers for effective resolution of the dynamics of the UTLS using high resolution nested simulations. We will also study the feasibility of an integrated hardware-software platform which uses state-of-the-art multi-core technologies for single analytic workloads to accelerate run-time performance for real time operational forecasting. BENEFIT: The Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Global Hawk, Predator), U2, reconnaissance, and communication systems will benefit from this STTR project. Additional applications include forecasts in complex terrain or urban areas for problems related to aviation and Homeland Security.