TDS is composed of software and hardware elements incorporating a two-frequency spaceborne radar system for measuring tropical precipitation. The TDS would be used primarily in generating data products for scientific investigations. The most novel part of the TDS would be expert-system software to aid in the selection of algorithms for converting raw radar-return data into such primary observables as rain rate, path integrated rain rate, and surface backscatter. The expert-system approach would address the issue that selection of algorithms for processing the data requires a significant amount of preprocessing, non-intuitive reasoning, and heuristic application, making it infeasible, in many cases, to select the proper algorithm in real time. In the TDS, tentative selections would be made to enable conversions in real time. The expert system would remove straightforwardly convertible data from further consideration, and would examine ambiguous data, performing analysis in depth to determine which algorithms to select. Conversions performed by these algorithms, presumed to be correct, would be compared with the corresponding real-time conversions. Incorrect real-time conversions would be updated using the correct conversions.
This work was done by Mark James of Caltech for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free online at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Information Sciences category.
The software used in this innovation is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-42515.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Assistant for Analyzing Tropical-Rain-Mapping Radar Data
(reference NPO-42515) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document outlines NASA's Technical Support Package for the Assistant for Analyzing Tropical-Rain-Mapping Radar Data (NPO-42515), focusing on the TRAMAR (TRopical RAin MApping Radar) system. This innovative technology is designed to enhance global climate forecasting by accurately measuring tropical precipitation. TRAMAR will be deployed aboard a space-borne radar platform, such as the Manned Space Station, and is capable of conducting measurements over extended periods, up to four years, while covering vast global areas.
The primary function of the TRAMAR data system (TDS) is to generate data products that support scientific investigations related to climate anomalies and improved hurricane forecasting. The system will utilize an expert system to analyze primary geophysical observables, including rain rate and surface backscatter, while applying necessary corrections for factors such as antenna gain mismatch and atmospheric conditions. This approach aims to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the data collected.
The document emphasizes the complexity of accurately determining the appropriate algorithms for data processing, which requires significant computational resources and sophisticated reasoning. To address this challenge, the proposed expert system will analyze Level 1A data in a non-real-time context, correcting any erroneous translations that may have occurred during real-time Level 2 processing. This system will filter straightforward conversions, focusing on ambiguous data to determine the most suitable algorithm for accurate data interpretation.
In addition to its primary functions, the TRAMAR system will also manage data distribution and archiving, ensuring that the generated data products are accessible for scientific research. The document highlights the potential applications of TRAMAR in various earth science investigations, including climate monitoring and weather prediction.
Overall, the Technical Support Package provides a comprehensive overview of the TRAMAR system's capabilities, its innovative approach to data analysis, and its significance in advancing our understanding of tropical precipitation and climate dynamics. The document serves as a resource for researchers and stakeholders interested in the technological advancements and scientific contributions of NASA's efforts in climate science.
