1991 data from the FIRE Cirrus 2 field experiment contains altitude versus time images of cirrus clouds. The dataset was created by the LARC_ASDC organization using a Volume Imaging Lidar instrument. Images were sampled at 5 km intervals during cross-wind scans at Coffeyville, Kansas.
Use Cases
- Analyze cirrus cloud altitude evolution over time from the RTI image data.
- Validate satellite-derived cloud top height estimates using the lidar altitude profiles.
- Study cloud physical processes by correlating altitude-time structures with other FIRE mission observations.
- Improve GCM parameterizations by providing high-resolution cloud data for comparison with ISCCP products.
Strengths
- Data originates from a coordinated, intensive field observation period designed for model validation.
- Images provide specific altitude vs. time structure for cirrus clouds with 5 km cross-wind sampling.
Limitations
- Dataset is temporally limited to a single field campaign from November to December 1991.
- Specific row count, column details, and sample size are unknown.
- Geographic coverage is limited to the southeastern Kansas region.
Provenance
- Source
- LARC_ASDC via NASA Earthdata.
- Collection Method
- Collected by a Volume Imaging Lidar instrument during the FIRE Cirrus 2 intensive field observation.
- Time Range
- November 13 - December 7, 1991.
- Freshness
- null
- Geography
- Coffeyville, Kansas, USA.