KGSP NEXRAD Radar Images for GPM Ground Validation

Radar images contain base reflectivity observations from the KGSP NEXRAD system during the Integrated Precipitation and Hydrology Experiment (IPHEx). The dataset supports ground validation for the Global Precipitation Measurement mission and evaluation of precipitation estimation products. Data was collected from May 1 to June 12, 2014, in the southeastern United States.

Use Cases

• Validating satellite-based precipitation estimates from the GPM mission using ground radar observations.
• Evaluating Quantitative Precipitation Estimation products for improving hydrologic forecasting models.
• Analyzing the spatial distribution and intensity of rainfall events in the southeastern U.S. during the IPHEx campaign.
• Studying the size distribution of water particles in the atmosphere via base reflectivity measurements.

Strengths

• Data originates from the established NEXRAD network of 160 S-Band weather radars.
• Provides a focused temporal snapshot for a specific field campaign (IPHEx) over 43 days.
• Cross-platform presence on Data.gov and NASA EarthData indicates recognized importance for research.

Limitations

• Dataset size, row count, and specific column structure are not documented across all sources.
• Sources disagree on the last update date: Data.gov lists 2026-03-13, while NASA EarthData lists 2014-06 12.
• The license is ambiguously listed as 'other-license-specified' without clear terms.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Collection Method

Observations from the stationary KGSP NEXRAD S-Band radar instrument during the IPHEx field campaign.

Time Range

May 1, 2014 through June 12, 2014

Freshness

2026-03-13 02:03:44.312695

Geography

Southeastern region of the United States (specific to the KGSP radar site).