GPM_2AKu: Ku-Band Satellite Precipitation Profiles

Version 07 of the GPM DPR Ku Precipitation Profile 2A dataset provides precipitation estimates from the Ku-band radar on the GPM spacecraft. The algorithm is a single-frequency retrieval relying on Ku-band data only, producing a 1 swath structure with normal scans. The data is produced by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and supersedes older versions.

Use Cases

• Modeling global precipitation patterns based on Ku-band radar swath data
• Comparing single-frequency retrieval algorithms with dual-frequency methods based on the described algorithm differences
• Analyzing precipitation profiles for pixels in inner and outer swaths of normal scans
• Validating satellite-derived precipitation estimates against ground measurements

Strengths

• Version 07 is the current and superseding version, indicating ongoing maintenance
• Algorithm is specifically designed for Ku-band radar data, a well-established measurement type
• Data structure is defined as a 1 swath with normal scans, suggesting a consistent format

Limitations

• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download
• Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment
• Data may reflect geographic/temporal bias inherent to satellite coverage

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Collection Method

Satellite remote sensing via the Ku-band channel of the Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) on the GPM spacecraft.

Freshness

Last updated 2026-03-13 02:07:53.400125; freshness should be verified

Geography

Global, based on satellite swath coverage