VAWS (2-part talk): Improvement of Satellite 3-D Cloud Structure Information for Aviation Users & Two CIMSS products for Decision Support in Aviation

Speakers:
Dr. Yoo-Jeong (YJ) Noh
Research Scientist
NOAA Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA)
Colorado State University
&
Dr. Scott Lindstrom
Cooperative Institute for Meterological Satellite Studies (CIMSS)
University of Wisconsin Madison

Part 1:
In support of the NOAA JPSS Aviation Initiative, the CIRA team recently introduced Cloud Vertical Cross-section products for aviation users to provide satellite cloud information in a more user-friendly way. Cloud cross-sections along flight routes are derived from the NOAA Enterprise Cloud products, and PIREPs and temperature data (NUCAPS or NWP model) are also incorporated with terrain information. Starting with the Alaska sector using JPSS VIIRS data, we expanded this effort to CONUS with the addition of GOES-16 ABI and continue to improve the products based on user feedback.

Part 2:
CIMSS scientists have created two different products recently that will help in aviation support. First, IFR Probability products combine satellite and model information into a 24-hour product that gives useful information on the likelihood of ceiling and visibility restrictions. This product is more skillful than satellite data or model data alone. Second, a turbulence probability product was developed using Machine Learning techniques operating on satellite data, GFS stability products, and in-plane observations of Eddy Dissipation Rate (EDR). The result is a product that predicts the probability of turbulence at different levels between 30K and 41K feet.