From Observations to Forecasts - Part 8: The use of satellite observations in numerical weather prediction

Satellite observations combine to form the most important source of observations in NWP, and provide information on atmospheric and surface temperature, water vapour and wind fields. This article has described the main types of satellite observations used in numerical weather prediction, but it is not an exhaustive account. The growing importance of air quality forecasting, and links to climate studies, means that information on aerosol and chemical species is also of increasing interest. Satellite observations, with their global coverage, are ideally suited to providing this type of information. The MACC project (http://www.gmes-atmosphere.eu/) is one example of active research in this area. Innovative improvements in the use of existing data are constantly sought, and many centres are beginning to make use of information on cloud properties and precipitation from satellite observations to improve weather forecasts in meteorologically active areas. Every year new instruments provide more data, improving the coverage and filling gaps in the global observing system. The hugely important role of satellite data in NWP is therefore set to continue to grow over the coming decades.