A global Precipitation retrieval algorithm for Suomi NPP ATMS

This paper develops a precipitation retrieval algorithm for the Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) recently launched aboard the U.S. Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (Suomi NPP) satellite. The algorithm is called the ATMS MIT Precipitation retrieval algorithm version 1 (ATMP-1), employs neural network estimators trained and evaluated using the validated global reference physical model NCEP/MM5/TBSCAT/F(λ), and works for snow-free land and seawater with |latitudes|<;50°. Signals were carefully chosen and principal component analysis was used to filter out angle and surface effects, and other noises. Retrievals are useful for surface precipitation rates higher than 1 mm/h at 15-km resolution for both land and sea, as evaluated using MM5. Surface precipitation rates retrieved using ATMP-1 for ATMS aboard Suomi NPP satellite are in good agreement with those retrieved using the AMSU MIT Precipitation retrieval algorithm (AMP) for AMSU aboard NOAA-18 satellite.