Use of Geostationary Satellite Radio Signals for Determining of Hydrometeor Parameters

Abstract

The opportunity to use the geostationary satellite radio signals at high elevation angles for determining parameters of hydrometeors (rain, snow, hail, clouds) is discussed. The attenuation and scattering of radio waves allow one to determine the average moisture and drop concentration in stratocumulus clouds, the reflection of radio waves from cumulonimbus clouds provides information on the intensity and hazard of cloudbursts etc. The functional diagram of equipment and results of experimental investigations on main forms of low-, middle- and high-level clouds are presented. The method of cloud recognizing using the geostationary satellite radiation, is promising. The equipment is environmentally safe, simple and cheap.