Atmospheric Sciences 101 Observing Systems ASOS Automated Surface

Atmospheric Sciences 101 Observing Systems

ASOS: Automated Surface Observing System: Backbone Observing System in the U. S.

Hydrothermograph

Precipitation Gauges

Laser Weather Identifier

Anemometer Wind Vane Laser Ceilometer

The ASOS Freezing Rain Sensor uses an ultrasonically vibrating probe to detect the presence of icing conditions. The vibrating frequency of the probe decreases with the accumulation of ice.

Lightning Sensor Visibility Sensor

Full ASOS system in Arizona

Other Surface Networks • Bureau of Land Management • RAWS • Agrimet • PAWS • Department of Ecology • Puget Sound Clean Air • BC Hydro • BC Olympics • Weather Underground

Marine Reports

Ocean and Lake Weather Buoys Anchored

Drifting Buoys Wind Pressure

Coastal Marine (CMAN) Reports from the Coast Guard

Northwest Buoy and CMAN Locations

Ship Reports: Marine VOS Program Volunteers Observers--generally 6 -hourly reports Highly variable quality and frequency

Upper Air Data

Early Upper Air Information • Mountain weather stations • Weather kites

Early Upper Air Information • Early 20 th century: manned aircraft • 1920 s-1930 s: the development of ballooncarried instruments…the radiosonde.

Radiosonde

Radiosonde Video http: //www. youtube. com/watch? v=j. GQWUFEMx. T 8

Profiler

Seattle Profiler/RASS

ACARS: Aircraft Observations Generally on wide-body aircraft Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System