Remotely sensing cloud properties from microwave radiometric observations by using a modeled cloud database

As a first step for remote sensing cloud properties, a data base of cloud genera has been established. This is derived from a microphysical model and it considers the statistical profiles of four hydrometeor species for each cloud genus. From this data base the corresponding radiative data base is obtained making use of a radiative transfer model, so for each cloud genus the simulated microwave response at the Special Sensor Microwave Imager (SSM/I) channels is found. The cloud genera and radiative data bases allow the retrieval of the kind of cloud and of its properties from satellite observations. An automatic cloud genus classifier has been also implemented. Several tests have been carried out and the results are presented.