Radiometric profiling of tropospheric temperature, humidity and cloud liquid

We describe a radiometric profiler that provides accurate temperature, humidity and cloud liquid profiles during clear and cloudy conditions. The radiometer observes radiation intensity at 12 microwave frequencies, along with infrared and surface meteorological measurements. Historical radiosonde and neural network or regression methods are used for profile retrieval. We compare radiometric, radiosonde and forecast profiles and summarize results from other studies regarding retrieval methods and accuracy evaluations. Radiometric profiling, particularly when combined with wind profiling radar and advanced assimilation methods, provides continuous, accurate and reliable measurements needed for improved local high resolution modeling and forecasting. We describe the potential to extend local radiometric soundings and forecast improvements to regional scale using “slant” observations of integrated signal delay along individual GPS ray paths.