Microwave-band Weather Satellite Monitoring Rendered Useless

[Scott A. Kampas]

Forecasters face losing key tools

Meteorologists fear they are losing one of their essential forecasting tools - microwave frequencies uniquely able to "see" through clouds from satellites.

They say commercial applications, for example mobile phones and collision avoidance systems, are ruining them.

I recall someone warning about this occurring on the wx-forums some time ago, and that it will get much worse.

Scott

 

[Nick Smith]

Sounds like "ground clutter" on satellite images...

 

[Ben Cotton]

Sounds like "ground clutter" on satellite images...

The big difference is ground clutter is a somewhat unavoidable form of noise, whereas other services using the satelltie bands is completely avoidable. This reminds me of the BPL issue, where the greater good is up against the almighty dollar. Losing these unique bands would be a giant step backwards for the art of forecasting.


Ben