The Microwave Temperature and Humidity Profiler: Description and Preliminary Results

Area of Science:

• Atmospheric Science
• Remote Sensing
• Radiometry

Background:

• Accurate atmospheric temperature and humidity profiles are crucial for understanding weather patterns and climate dynamics.
• Aircraft-based remote sensing offers a flexible platform for atmospheric measurements.
• Existing microwave profilers have limitations in spectral resolution and measurement capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and validate the Microwave Temperature and Humidity Profiler (MTHP), a novel dual-band spectroradiometer.
• To demonstrate the MTHP's capability for measuring multi-incidence angle temperature and humidity profiles from an aircraft.
• To assess the instrument's performance and potential for atmospheric research, particularly for the Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL).

Main Methods:

• The MTHP utilizes dual-band microwave radiometry at 60 GHz (hyperspectral, 2048 channels) and 183 GHz (4 channels).
• Instrument design, components, and a three-point calibration scheme were detailed.
• Preliminary data were collected during the TI3GER campaign, involving flights over diverse regions.

Main Results:

• Successful antenna temperature measurements were achieved at both 60 GHz and 183 GHz.
• Hyperspectral measurements showed good agreement (R² > 0.88) with simulated data using the Atmospheric Radiative Transfer Simulator (ARTS).
• Potential Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) effects were identified, highlighting instrument sensitivity.

Conclusions:

• The MTHP represents the first airborne demonstration of broadband and hyperspectral multi-incidence angle 60 GHz measurements.
• The instrument's performance indicates its potential as a valuable tool for atmospheric research.
• Future improvements could enhance spatial resolution for more accurate PBL estimation and its role in Earth's cycles.