Short-term Prediction Research
and Transition Center

Utilizing unique space-based observations to improve short-term forecasting

The NASA Short-term Prediction Research and Transition (SPoRT) Center seeks to accelerate the infusion of NASA Earth Science observations, data assimilation and modeling research into NWS forecast operations and decision-making at the regional and local level. The primary focus is on the regional scale and emphasizes forecast improvements on a time scale of 0-24 hours. Products transitioned to the NWS and operational weather community in support of real-time weather applications include observations and products from MODIS, AMSR-E, and AIRS instruments, refined data assimilation techniques and resulting initial fields and regional model forecasts, and nowcasting products such as convective indices and total lightning observations. The utility of these new observations to improve short-term weather forecasts is monitored and quantities in various impact studies. New products and techniques are being developed for future transition to operations.

Timely data and products are key to short-term forecasting and assimilation.

Recent Imager Visible Image The geostationary orbit of the GOES satellite provides a unique observing capability to monitor short-lived weather phenomena. The multispectral capabilities of the Imager and Sounder provide the ability to analyze the thermodynamic structure of the atmosphere that controls our weather. The GOES imagery to the right presents an example of cloud features associated with weather patterns across the U.S.
 

A numerical weather prediction model is a forecaster's tool and a research scientist's laboratory

Recent numerical weather model output and link

The NASA Earth Science research program seeks to improve the quality of numerical forecasts using remotely sensed data collected from satellites and ground-based observing systems. Research projects underway at the SPoRT Center include the use of high-resolution Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) sea surface temperature composites and the assimilation of Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) data in short-term, regional forecasts using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) prediction system. The impact of the data is assessed so that benefits can be transitioned to operations.

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Technical Contact: Dr. William M. Lapenta (bill.lapenta@nasa.gov)

Responsible Official: Dr. James L. Smoot (James.L.Smoot@nasa.gov)

Page Curator: Paul J. Meyer (paul.meyer@nasa.gov)

Last updated: Sun Oct 12 05:15:30 UTC 2008
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