Advanced algorithms for QuikScat and SeaWinds/AMSR

Abstract

QuikScat is providing scientists and weather forecasters with an unprecedented view of ocean winds at a 25-km resolution. With a typical accuracy of 1 m/s in speed and 15/spl deg/ in direction, the retrieved wind vectors are being used for a number of important oceanographic and air/sea interaction studies. We present work on a QuikScat wind-vector retrieval algorithm that contains a number of advanced features, including: an updated geophysical model function (Ku-2001), a fully integrated stand-alone rain flag, and the capability to retrieve winds up to 70 m/s. In addition, the QuikScat data processing is done in parallel with our near-real-time operational data processing for SSM/I and TMI. In this way, an additional rain flag as well as a sea-ice flag (both based on the SSM/I and TMI observations) can be appended to the QuikScat wind vectors. We present results of two studies: (1) the capability for QuikScat to measure very high winds (>30 m/s) and (2) comparisons between scatterometer and radiometer wind speed retrievals (i.e. QuikScat versus TMI). These investigations are leading towards a combined SeaWinds-AMSR algorithm for ADEOS-2, which will ingest both scatterometer and radiometer observations to obtain more accurate wind vectors and sea-surface temperatures.