GPM Ground Validation Radar Data for Snowfall Experiment

NEXRAD radar data from the KAPX site was collected from January 9 to March 12, 2012 for the GPM Cold-season Precipitation Experiment (GCPEx). This dataset contains Level 2 and Level 3 binary files and browse images, aimed at characterizing multi-frequency microwave sensors for snowfall detection. It was produced by the GHRC DAAC as part of NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission validation efforts.

Use Cases

• Validating satellite-based snowfall retrieval algorithms by comparing GPM observations with ground-based NEXRAD radar reflectivity data.
• Analyzing the microphysical properties of precipitating snow using coordinated remote sensing observations collected during the GCPEx field campaign.
• Studying the spatial and temporal patterns of winter precipitation in the Great Lakes region using radar data from the KAPX site.
• Developing and testing models for simulating precipitating snow by using the collected microphysical properties and associated remote sensing data.

Strengths

• Data is part of a targeted, multi-agency field campaign (GCPEx) specifically designed to address shortcomings in snowfall retrieval.
• Provides data from a key component of the U.S. national weather observation network, the NEXRAD WSR-88D system.
• Includes both Level 2 (base data) and Level 3 (derived product) data files for analysis.

Limitations

• The exact row count, dataset size, and complete column list are unknown across all sources.
• Sources conflict on the last updated date, reporting either 2012-03-12 or 2026-03-13.
• Data coverage is limited to a specific two-month campaign in early 2012.

Provenance

Source

GHRC_DAAC

Collection Method

Collected by the Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) system at the KAPX site during the GCPEx field campaign.

Time Range

January 9, 2012 to March 12, 2012

Freshness

2026-03-13 02:23:22.243388

Geography

United States (specifically the KAPX radar site) and select overseas NEXRAD locations.