Global lightning and severe storm monitoring from GPS orbit

摘要: Over the last few decades, there has been a growing interest to develop and deploy an automated continuously operating satellite-based global lightning mapper [e.g. Christian et al., 1989; Weber 1998; Suszcynsky 2000]. Lightning is direct consequence of electrification breakdown processes that take place during convective stages thunderstorm development. Satellite-based mappers are designed exploit this relationship by using detection as proxy for remotely identifying, locating characterizing strong activity on basis. Global convection mapping promises provide users with (1) enhanced severe weather monitoring early warning capability 1998] (2) improved ability optimize aviation flight paths around cells, particularly over oceanic remote regions not sufficiently serviced existing radar 1998], (3) access regional data sets can be used scientific studies input into meteorological forecast climatology models. The physical foundation sensing way provided basic interplay between electrical states thundercloud.more » It widely believed driving mechanism behind hydrometeor charging transport produces charge separation discharges within thunderclouds see chapter 3 in MacGorman Rust, 1998]. Although cloud discharge complex function dynamics microphysics cloud, fundamental easy observe. For example, have shown strength process thundercell loosely parameterized (with large variance) intensity cell measured flash rate. Williams [2001] review experimental work shows correlations total rate fifth power cloud-top height (i.e. strength) individual thunder cells. More recently, Ushio statistical sampling optical from Imaging Sensor (LIS) conjunction Precipitation Radar (PR) aboard Tropical Rainfall Monitoring Mission (TRMM) satellite conclude increases exponentially storm height. levels also correlated ice content, product process. Blyth al. Thermal Microwave Imager (TMI) TRMM observe decrease 37 85 GHz brightness temperatures upwelling terrestrial radiation increased activity. This reduction temperature result scattering mixed phase region cloud. Toracinta Zipser found similar relationships Optical Transient Detector (OTD) instrument Special (SSM/I) DMSP satellites.« less