On the quality of RS41 radiosonde descent data

Abstract. Radiosonde descent profiles have been available from tens of stations for several years now – mainly Vaisala RS41 radiosondes. They compared with the ascent profiles, ECMWF short-range forecasts and co-located radio occultation retrievals. Over this time, our understanding data has grown, comparison also shed some light on radiosonde data. The fall rate is very variable an important factor, high rates being associated temperature biases, especially at higher altitudes. Ascent winds are affected by pendulum motion; average, less motion smoother. It plausible that true wind variability in vertical lies between shown profiles. This discrepancy indicates need reference measurements. With current processing, best results radiosondes parachutes pressure sensors. Some wind, humidity assimilated forecast system.