Multispectral NOAA Marine Atmospheric Boundary Layer (MABL) estimates during VOCAR
By: David J. Walsh
Publisher: Naval Postgraduate School; Available from National Technical Information Service
Published: 1994
Place of publication: Monterey, Calif; Springfield, Va
Language: eng
Number of pages: 106
Description: Satellite derived images of surface relative humidity and boundary layer height are generated from AVHRR data collected in a coastal region during the Variability of Coastal Atmospheric Refractivity (VOCAR) IOP (24 August - 03 September 1993) for comparison with in-situ data. The technique, proposed by Kren (1987) and verified by Smolinski (1988) uses channels 1, 4, and 5 via the relationship between radiative extinction and relative humidity. The input variables measured are sea surface temperature, and total atmospheric water vapor, from the split-window technique in addition to aerosol optical depth, inferred from Channel 1 radiance. The assumption of total atmospheric water vapor confined to the MABL is relaxed. Satellite-derived boundary layer heights are brought into agreement with radiosonde measurements by varying the amount of water vapor confined to the MABL. Agreement between satellite and radiosonde measured heights and slopes is good. Spatial and temporal variability of refractive conditions over the region is large. The method appears capable of tracking the bottom of a trapping layer, associated with the inversion at the top of the MABL, inferred from radiosonde measurements. Comparison with the IR Duct Technique, an empirical method which applies to cloudy areas, shows promise for integration with this technique for clear areas. Remote sensing, Coastal meteorology, AVHRR, Marine atmospheric boundary layer, Refractivity.
Notes: Thesis advisor(s): Carlyle H. Wash.

"June 1994."

Thesis (M.S. in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography) Naval Postgraduate School, June 1994.

Bibliography: p. 103-105.

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US Navy (USN) author.