Numerical Techniques and Cloud-Scale Processes for High-Resolution Models

Our approach is to follow a methodical plan in the development and testing of a nonhydrostatic microscale modeling system that will leverage the existing COAMPS and new model prototypes. Our work on numerical methods will involve investigation of spatial and temporal discretization algorithms that are superior to the current generation leap-frog, second-order accurate numerical techniques presently employed in COAMPS and many other models; these new discretization methods will be developed and implemented. Our work on the physics for the next-generation COAMPS will feature the development of physical parameterizations specifically designed to represent cloud-scale processes operating on fine scales. A parameterization is proposed that properly represents the coupled nature between the turbulence and microphysics in droplet activation, evaporation, and auto-conversion processes for mesoscale and microscale models. Validation and evaluation of the modeling system will be performed using datasets of opportunity, particularly in regions of Navy significance.