GPM Ground Validation Precipitation Particle Dataset

Two high-speed line scan cameras provide continuous measurements of precipitation particle size distribution, shape, and fall velocities. This third-generation 2D video disdrometer, designed by Joanneum Research, collects data for the Global Precipitation Measurement Mission at the National Space Science Technology Center in Huntsville, AL. The dataset supports satellite validation but may have gaps when the instrument is deployed to field campaigns.

Use Cases

• Validating satellite precipitation retrievals from the GPM mission using ground-based particle size and fall velocity data.
• Analyzing raindrop size distribution (DSD) and hydrometeor types for precipitation microphysics research.
• Studying the relationship between particle shape, fall speed, and rainfall intensity.
• Calibrating and evaluating other disdrometer or radar-based precipitation measurement systems.

Strengths

• Provides continuous, high-speed measurements of individual precipitation particles.
• Captures multiple microphysical properties including size, shape, and fall velocity.
• Serves as a key ground validation dataset for the NASA-led Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission.

Limitations

• Specific row counts, column names, and dataset size are not provided by any source.
• Data contains occasional gaps when the instrument is deployed away from its primary site for field campaigns.
• Sources conflict on the last updated date, with one listing 2011 and another listing 2026.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Collection Method

Collected by a third-generation Two-Dimensional Video Disdrometer (2DVD) designed by Joanneum Research.

Freshness

2026-03-13 01:58:58.367508

Geography

National Space Science Technology Center (NSSTC) in Huntsville, AL, with additional data from field campaign deployments.