HURSAT-MW (Microwave)
Summary
Passive microwave observations provide significant information content given that most clouds are transparent at microwave wavelengths. The HURSAT-MW data set is constructed in largely the same manner as HURSAT-B1. Each time a Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) satellite passes over a tropical cyclone, Special Sensing Microwave Imager (SSMI) data are mapped to an equal angle grid (fixed latitude/longitude) centered on the temporally interpolated storm location. HURSAT-MW provides brightness temperatures for all 7 SSMI channels. No product retrievals (e.g., rain rate, total column water vapor, ...) are provided in the data, but are possible (e.g., view the imagery derived from the data).
Beta Release
HURSAT-MW is currently in beta release. Imagery is available on line, but data are only available by contacting Ken Knapp directly. We are looking for input to help improve the data from users who are willing to download and use the data in their work. Once testing is complete, all data will be made available via anonymous FTP, possibly by 2008 (depending on the results and participation of the beta release).
Other satellites
Currently, HURSAT-MW data is limited to DMSP SSMI data. If you are interested in hurricane imagery from other microwave satellites, please contact Ken Knapp.
