TCSP GOES Visible and Infrared Satellite Images for Cyclogenesis Research

Tropical Cloud Systems and Processes (TCSP) mission data provides visible (0.65 microns) and infrared (11 microns) imagery from GOES-11 and GOES-12 satellites. The dataset includes McIDAS-format data files and browse images, created to study the conditions for tropical storm and hurricane formation. It is archived and distributed by the GHRC DAAC.

Use Cases

• Analyzing cloud structure and development using visible channel imagery.
• Studying storm thermal characteristics and energy via infrared channel data.
• Investigating cyclogenesis by correlating satellite imagery with atmospheric variables like temperature and humidity.
• Creating visualizations or time-lapse sequences of tropical storm formation from browse images.

Strengths

• Data originates from a focused NASA field mission (TCSP) designed for cyclogenesis research.
• Provides co-registered imagery from two distinct spectral channels (visible and infrared).
• Includes pre-generated browse images for quick visual assessment.

Limitations

• Specific row counts, file sizes, and complete column details are unavailable from all sources.
• Conflicting last updated dates exist: one source lists 2005-07-31, while others list 2026-03-12 (likely a metadata refresh).
• The exact temporal coverage of the imagery collection is not specified.

Provenance

Source

GHRC_DAAC (Global Hydrology Resource Center Distributed Active Archive Center).

Collection Method

Collected by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites 11 and 12 (GOES-11, GOES-12) during the Tropical Cloud Systems and Processes (TCSP) mission.

Time Range

null

Freshness

2026-03 12 21:05:09.732199

Geography

Tropical regions relevant to cyclogenesis and hurricane formation, as observed by geostationary satellites.