It looks as though Friday represents the next opportunity for significant clouds, with multiple layers expected. Both the Gulfstream-1 and Twin Otter have been flying this morning. The Twin Otter is continuing its Surface Characterization experiment. It is flying over different land surfaces in northern Oklahoma to measure surface albedo characteristics. No determination has yet been made as to when the Altus 24-hour radiation budget mission will be flown.
Clear skies prevail over the Central Facility area.
There is some mid-level cloudiness in southern Oklahoma. The UAV IOP will fly the Twin Otter today, with a first flight scheduled around 9 am Central. More later concerning the scientific goals of this activity. The Citation will likely fly this evening for the Water Vapor IOP, with the possibility of a cirrus flight for the Cloud IOP if thunderstorm anvil cirrus moves into the area. Thunderstorm development in western Oklahoma this afternoon could cause an increase in afternoon cloudiness.