Radiometrics & Thermodynamic Profiling
 

The atmosphere, via quantum mechanical processes, emits a tiny amount of microwave energy containing three dimensional temperature and moisture (thermodynamic) information closely linked to near term local weather. These emissions can be detected by a highly sensitive receiver called a microwave radiometer; atmospheric temperature and moisture structure can then be determined and used to improve local high impact weather prediction. Microwave radiometers provide unique atmospheric information that is not detected by radar or by eye.

Some of the most common weather events - gust fronts, lightning, heavy rain, hail, icing and fog - are the most difficult to predict. Ultimately, prediction accuracy is limited by a lack of timely (real-time) data in the planetary boundary layer where severe weather originates. More specifically, radiosonde and commercial aircraft soundings are limited in space and time, weather radars are insensitive to early stage convection, and satellite soundings are inadequate in the boundary layer.

Radiometrics pioneered commercial ground-based microwave radiometry two decades ago, and continues as the world leader in microwave radiometer product innovation and sales. More than 200 of our radiometers are now in operation worldwide. Proven, patented designs ensure optimum long-term, all-weather performance for research and operations. Our rugged, compact thermodynamic profilers observe three dimensional air temperature, humidity and liquid features that define local weather. Our mature software automatically generates a full suite of continuous forecast indices and tools in familiar meteorological format, delivering powerful new tools for local high impact weather prediction.

Designed to meet the demands of research and operational forecasters, our thermodynamic profilers are proven performers in extreme environments and weather conditions. Features include:

  • Continuous temperature, humidity and liquid profiles to 10 km height

  • Optimum performance in all weather conditions

  • 35 microwave frequency channels

  • Internal mount infrared cloud base temperature sensor

  • Browser-based 'click and zoom' control and display software

  • GPS time and position

  • Full suite of automatically generated forecast indices and tools
  • Powerful new tools for high impact local weather prediction

Radiometrics profilers deliver unique local atmospheric information essential for accurate local high impact weather prediction.