Satellite radiances and clear air turbulence probabilities

Abstract

Abstract. Radiance gradients recorded by Nimbus III and IV, over the United States and the Atlantic Ocean, respectively, are well-related to probability of clear air turbulence. Making use of satellite data only, it is possible to avoid CAT almost entirely. In general, radiosonde-measured temperature gradients are not as well correlated with CAT as satellite radiance gradients; but if the satellite track is parallel to the isotherms, radiance gradients along the satellite track are negligible; and temperature gradients at constant pressure are better indicators of CAT unless the satellite instrument scans at right angles to the track.