Meteorology, Climate Change Science, and Satellite Remote Sensing of Clouds

Abstract

The satellite observation of clouds has been contributing to meteorology and climate change science for more than 50 years. Remote sensing techniques have been developed and improved to obtain quantitative data regarding cloud properties. Quantitative estimation of cloud physical parameters depends on the observation technique used, and even basic cloud properties such as cloud amount and top height are different according to the technique. Therefore, to use the obtained data it is necessary to understand the principle of observation. Active remote sensing provides vertical profiles of clouds, although the coverage is limited to the nadir of the satellite orbit. On the other hand, passive remote sensing with a radiometer can scan a wide swath. The combination of these two sensors produces valuable information on the cloud, as well as on the use of multi-wavelength measurements. A comparison of satellite remote sensing with results of numerical simulation, and data assimilation of satellite data are powerful methods for advancing the understanding of cloud properties, which then impacts meteorology and climate change science.