Remote sensing and analysis of tropical cyclones: Current and emerging satellite sensors

Abstract

This article describes recent advances in the capability of new satellite sensors for observing Tropical Cyclones (TC) fine structure, wind field, and temporal evolution. The article is based on a World Meteorological Organization (WMO) report prepared for the 10th International Workshop on Tropical Cyclones (IWTC), held in Bali in December 2022, and its objective is to present updates in TC research and operation every four years. Here we focus on updates regarding the most recent space-based TC observations, and we cover new methodologies and techniques using polar orbiting sensors, such as C-band synthetic aperture radars (SARs), L-band and combined C/X-band radiometers, scatterometers, and microwave imagers/sounders. We additionally address progress made with the new generation of geostationary and small satellites, and discuss future sensors planned to be launched in the next years. We then briefly describe some examples on how the newest sensors are used in operations and data assimilation for TC forecasting and research, and conclude the article with a discussion on the remaining challenges of TC space-based observations and possible ways to address them in the near future.

Keywords

• Tropical cyclones
• Surface wind
• Satellite sensors
• Operations