3S-GEOPROF-COMB: Global Cloud Vertical Structure from CloudSat and CALIPSO

A global gridded dataset describing cloud vertical structure, derived from combined observations by the CloudSat and CALIPSO satellites. The dataset was created by Leah Bertrand at the University of Colorado Boulder. This listing is for an old version of the product, and users are advised to seek the latest version.

Use Cases

• Modeling cloud radiative effects based on vertical cloud profiles.
• Validating climate model outputs using satellite-derived cloud structure.
• Analyzing global cloud distribution patterns and their vertical extent.
• Studying cloud microphysics and thermodynamics from combined sensor data.

Strengths

• Combines observations from two distinct satellite sensors (CloudSat and CALIPSO).
• Provides a global, gridded perspective on cloud vertical structure.
• Created by a researcher at a reputable institution (University of Colorado Boulder).

Limitations

• This is an old version of the data product; users are explicitly advised to use the latest version.
• Description metadata is limited; actual data quality requires manual inspection after download.
• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.

Provenance

Source

CloudSat and CALIPSO satellite observations.

Collection Method

Combined and processed satellite observations.

Geography

Global