Observing System Simulation Experiments (OSSEs) with 3D Winds From Space
The NOAA Quantitative Observing System Assessment Program (QOSAP) was established in 2014 to address NOAA’s capability gap in conducting quantitative assessments for proposed changes to the global observing system. Since then, QOSAP has coordinated NOAA assessments of the impact of current and new observing technologies for atmospheric applications. A primary quantitative assessment tool QOSAP uses is an observing system simulation experiment (OSSE). Results from OSSEs help NOAA management prioritize mission designs and configurations in a cost-effective way by analyzing tradeoffs of proposed designs.
In support of the design of the next generation of satellite architecture at NOAA, a series of OSSEs were conducted. Benefits from well-known existing observing systems were combined with potential enhancements from non-yet-existing capabilities. Key questions to address where to investigate the relative value of sounding quality and quantity for global numerical weather prediction, and to quantify the value of 3-dimensional wind observations and their value relative to enhanced sounding capabilities. In this context, both active (doppler wind lidar) and passive (tracking moisture features) aproaches to measure winds from space were considered.
Results of these experiments will be presented, with focus on the wind component. In addition, specific OSSEs with Aeolus versus an enhanced Aeolus follow-on mission will be discussed.
