Multilayered cloud parameters retrievals from combined infrared and microwave satellite observations

A technique based on multispectral satellite observations is proposed to improve the retrieval of cloud parameters in presence of scenes with overlapping cloud layers. The technique combines satellite data measured by the Atmospheric Infrared Radiation Sounder, the Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit-A/B, and the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer. Cloud properties, such as top heights (CTH) and base heights (CBH), integrated water vapor (IWV), liquid water path (LWP), and ice water path (IWP), are estimated for a variety of scenes, including multilayered cloud cases. Satellite retrievals are validated against ground-based observations collected at the Chilbolton Observatory Facilities (UK) during spacecraft overpasses. Results from the proposed technique are compared with retrievals using the CO2 slicing method (CTH only) and the standard AIRS Level 2 products (CTH, IWV, and LWP). The proposed technique shows significant improvements, especially in the presence of multiple cloud layers, at the expenses of larger computational efforts. For the data set considered in this study (40 cases), the root mean squared agreement with ground-based observations is within 295, 905, 1094, and 1862 m for the first two CTH and CBH, respectively, and 0.62, 0.08, and 0.02 kg/m2 for IWV, LWP, and IWP, respectively.