A deep understanding of cloud formation,evolution and cloud forcing is of great interest for a wide range of disciplines spaning from climatology to solar power production. The most robust tools in cloud studies are based on Remote Sensing observations which allow to detect and derive cloud microphysical properties over the vast regions of Globe with high temporal resolution. At the Remote Sensing Research Group of the University of Bern (RSGB) two satellites sensors are utilized in cloud studies namely: Spinning Enhanced Visible and Infrared Imager (SEVIRI) and Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR). The realtime data processing is done by AAPP, PPS and MSG software provided Nowcating-SAF, Meteo France and Met Office UK. Some of the acquired product are: cloud mask, cloud type, cloud top height and temperature, for complete list please refer to NWC SAF.
Main research goal of the cloud & fog project is the derivation of probability estimates and enhacement of existing cloud masking algoriths and discrimination of fog cover on a basis of coupled satalite and NWP data. Results acquired are extensively validated against CALIPSO and CLOUDSAT data.
