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Alfred, J.

Publications and source records attributed to Alfred, J..

An Update on GPM and TRMM Data Services at NASA GES DISC

The Goddard Earth Sciences (GES) Data and Information Services Center (DISC) is home to data archives of the NASA-JAXA Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM), the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM), and other NASA missions and projects. To maximize the use of NASA data products in scientific research and applications as well as for societal benefits, we provide data and information services that make datasets easy to find and use through simplification of data access for users at all levels around the world. Over the years, user-friendly data services have been developed at GES DISC, including data subsetting, format conversion, online visualization and analysis (i.e. Giovanni), user support system, etc. We routinely analyze questions, feedback, and use cases from users and algorithm developers around the world as well as best practices and new technology to improve existing services and formulate new data services. Interaction between users and algorithm developers is an important process for identifying issues in products, collecting user requirements, and improving product quality and usability. Staff members regularly communicate with algorithm developers with user questions and concerns through conferences and workshops. We publish peer-reviewed papers and articles in major Earth science journals and book chapters to describe NASA global and regional precipitation datasets and services with examples. News articles about GPM and TRMM datasets associated with significant events are regularly posted in the GES DISC Web portal and social media. We also actively participate in training activities. In this presentation, we present our latest activities about GPM and TRMM data services, data/service metrics, and future plans at GES DISC.

Liu, Z.↗

Multi-Year Characterization of PSCs Using Solar Occultation Satellite Observations

POAM solar occultation observations from1994 to present are studied for the purpose of determining Type I PSC formation characteristics and winter-long evolution. This information is critical to an improved understanding and predictive capability of stratospheric ozone depletion. Solar occultation satellite observations of these clouds yields more continuous and wide-spread information than can be obtained from aircraft, balloon, or ground-based observations. This multi-winter PSC study is augmented by the use of our Type Ia/Ib discrimination scheme. Recent studies of PSC formation made with POAM observations and simulations during the 1999-2000 Arctic winter have shown characteristics that shed light on the formation mechanisms responsible for Type Ia solid phase PSCs. This study examines PSC observations from many years on a common basis to see if the characteristics observed & cuing the 1999-2000 Arctic winter ai-e observed in other years and if other characteristics can be identified. The results show that Type Ia PSCs form at the beginning of the winter, within several days of the fxst drop in temperature below TNAT, and peak early in the winter. Type Ia PSCs typically outnumber Ib PSCs over the winter, especially at the beginning of the winter. Type Ia and Ib PSC observations continue throughout the winter. Micro-physical models of PSC formation must match these observed characteristics. Some models predict that temperatures must be more 5 K below T-NAT for five days before significant freezing can occur. This is not seen in the POAM observations. Differences in PSC characte ristics between the first two Arctic winters (1 994- 1995 and 1995- 1 996) and later winters also suggest the influence of volcanic perturb ations on PSC formation. Type Ia and Ib PSC characteristics observed by POAM III and SAGE III for the 2002-2003 Arctic winter are compared.

Strawa, A. W.↗

PSC Characteristics from Satellite Observations and Simulations

POAM solar occultation observations from 1994 to present are studied for the purpose of determining Type I PSC formation characteristics and winter-long evolution. This study examines PSC observations from many years on a common basis to see if characteristics can be identified. The results show that Type Ia PSCs form at the beginning of the winter, within several days of the first drop in temperature below T_NAT, and peak early in the winter. Type Ia PSCs typically out number Ib PSCs over the winter, especially at the beginning of the winter. Type Ia and Ib PSC observations continue throughout the winter. Micro-physical models of PSC formation must match these observed characteristics. Some models predict that temperatures must be more than 5 K below T_NAT for five days before significant freezing can occur. This is not seen in the POAM observations. Differences in PSC characteristics between the first two Arctic winters (1994-1995 and 1995-1996) and later winters also suggest the influence of volcanic perturbations on PSC formation. Type Ia and Ib PSC Characteristics observed by POAM III and SAGE III for the 2002-2003 Arctic winter are compared.

Strawa, A. W.↗