Observations Quality Monitoring (3Q OK)

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Why do we need observations quality monitoring ?

E-ASAP (EUMETNET Automated Shipboard Aerological Programme) manages weather balloon observations (so-called radiosoundings) to provide vertical profiles of temperature, humidity, pressure, and wind across the North Atlantic. Together with observations from ascending and descending aircraft, there are sufficient radiosonde stations across Europe. However, the North Atlantic also plays an essential role in the weather in Europe, and radiosoundings from this data-sparse ocean region help to improve our forecasts. Radiosoundings are also required to calibrate satellite observations over the sea. Therefore, the purpose of E-ASAP is to fill the data gap between Europe and North America by performing radiosoundings from the ships in the North Atlantic.

How does it work

OPERA has been coordinating operational weather radar data exchange in Europe for more than 20 years, with its data centre operational for over a decade. The central tasks of OPERA include developing and operating a data hub that collects radar volume data, distributes quality-flagged volume data to Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) modellers and other radar data users, and produces quality-controlled radar products. Additionally, OPERA is responsible for developing the OPERA Data Information Model (ODIM), enhancing expertise, and providing support to its members in the field of weather radar within EUMETNET. OPERA also collaborates on the global exchange of radar knowledge with the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and the broader weather radar community. By facilitating the exchange of expertise and data, OPERA plays a crucial role in advancing weather radar technology and improving weather forecasting across Europe.

Who’s in charge ?

The OPERA Programme is Dr. Annakaisa von Lerber.
The Coordinating Member is the National Meteorological Service of Finland (FMI)

GALLERY