An estimate of the Geosat altimeter wind speed algorithm at high wind speeds

摘要: Existing wind speed algorithms for satellite altimeters have been developed from data in the range 0 to 20 m/s. At higher speeds available diverge alarmingly. By comparing Geosat altimeter values of radar cross section with model predictions surface winds during overpasses tropical cyclones, a algorithm valid between and 40 m/s is developed. There is, however, considerable scatter these data. An error analysis shows that this observed consistent accuracy which cyclone fields can be inferred. approximately linear dependence on clearly evident within lower limit its applicability (U10 = m/s), are previously derived algorithms. upper mean squared slope inferred theoretical limit.