MT37D-Remote Sensing Methods and Applications

Module Provider: Meteorology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites: MT24B Atmospheric Physics or MT24BNU Atmospheric Physics
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Prof Christopher Merchant
Email: c.j.merchant@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module shows how to obtain information about the atmosphere using electromagnetic waves. In the first half of the course, we will consider how absorption, scattering and emission processes can used to quantify various atmospheric properties using satellites and ground-based instruments. In the second half of the course, we will study how radar and lidar instruments provide information about precipitation and clouds.

Aims:

This module aims to develop an understanding of the principles of remote sensing of the atmosphere from space and from the ground

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of this module the student should able to:

• Demonstrate an appreciation of the accuracy and sampling limitations of various satellite sounding systems;


• Demonstrate an understanding of which parts of the electromagnetic spectrum can be used for remote sensing from space;


• Assess the accuracy and limits of passive sounding from space;


• Analyse the capability of ground and space-based radar and lidar systems for sensing precipitation, clouds and Aerosols.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

• Satellite orbits and platforms;


• Radiation concepts for remote sensing;


• Temperature sounding by infra-red and microwave techniques;


• Limb and nadir viewing techniques;


• Measurement of precipitation, clouds and aerosols using radar and lidar from the ground and from space.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

There will be ten 1h 50m problem and group-work classes, applying the theory which students will learn from online videos prior to each class.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

One 1 1/2 hour p