Atmospheric Sciences 370
Observing Systems
ASOS: Automated Surface
Observing System
Hydrothermograph
Precipitation Gauges
Laser Weather
Identifier
Anemometer
Wind Vane
Laser Ceilometer
The ASOS
Freezing Rain
Sensor
uses an ultrasonically
vibrating probe to detect
the presence of icing
conditions. The vibrating
frequency of the probe
decreases with the
accumulation of ice.
Lightning Sensor
Visibility Sensor
Full ASOS system in Arizona
Other Surface Networks
Bureau of
Land Management
RAWS
Schoolnet Sites by AWS
Marine Reports
Ocean and Lake
Weather Buoys
Anchored
Drifting Buoys
Wind
Pressure
Coastal Marine (CMAN) Reports from the Coast Guard
Northwest Buoy and CMAN Locations
Ship Reports: Marine VOS Program
Volunteers Observers--generally 6-hourly reports
Satellite
Microwave
Scatterometer
Winds
QuickScat Satellite
Bounces microwaves off the ocean surface
Capillary waves dependent on wind speed and direction
Upper Air Data
Radiosonde
Radar Wind Profiler and RASS (Radio Acoustic Sounding System)
Seattle Profiler/RASS
ACARS: Aircraft Observations
Generally on wide-body aircraft
Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System
Cloud and
Water Vapor
Track Winds
Based on
Geostationary
Weather
Satellites
Satellite Temperature and Humidity Soundings
GOES sounder unit
Radar and Satellite Imagery
MORE LATER!