Evaluation of Satellite-Derived Information as an Analysis Tool and to Improve Predictability Over Conventional Data-Sparse Regions

The lack of adequate tropospheric observations over marine areas adversely affects the forecast skill of numerical weather prediction systems, and can therefore pose a threat to fleet operations. Clearly, space-based remote sensors must be employed to derive high-quality observations to help fill these data voids. In addition, it is important to marry these data with assimilation systems that can incorporate effectively the information provided in order to ameliorate the forecast skill degradation problems. It is the overarching mission of the Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies (CIMSS) located at the University of Wisconsin to forward the development and application of satellite-based information towards solving meteorological problems and observational deficiencies.