GPM_1BPR: TRMM Satellite Precipitation Radar Echo Power Measurements

Version 07 is the current version of this dataset, superseding all previous versions. The TRMM Precipitation Radar, the first of its kind in space, measures 3-D rainfall distribution over land and ocean at 13.8 GHz. Data resolution changed after a satellite boost in August 2001, increasing horizontal resolution from 4.3 km to 5.0 km.

Use Cases

• Calibrating satellite-based precipitation radar systems based on the described internal and external calibration processes.
• Analyzing 3-D rainfall distribution over land and ocean based on the radar's scanning capability.
• Studying changes in precipitation measurement resolution based on the pre- and post-boost satellite specifications.
• Modeling radar signal characteristics and potential bias based on the described Rayleigh fading assumption.

Strengths

• Data is the current Version 07, superseding all previous versions.
• Provides pre- and post-boost resolution specifications (4.3 km to 5.0 km horizontal, 215 km to 247 km swath).
• Describes a detailed calibration methodology using system models, temperature sensors, and an Active Radar Calibrator.
• Managed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Limitations

• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Collection Method

Measured by the TRMM Precipitation Radar, an electronically scanning space-based radar operating at 13.8 GHz, with calibration from an Active Radar Calibrator.

Time Range

Covers period before and after the TRMM satellite boost on 24 August 2001.

Freshness

Last updated 2026-03-13 02:17:07.837172; freshness should be verified.

Geography

Global coverage over both land and ocean.