A microwave backscattering model for rain column

A combined T-matrix algorithm and vector radiative transfer layered precipitation model has been used to analyze scattering from rain column. The raindrop is modeled as spheroid with complex permittivity. The phase matrices for differential layers rain-drop scattering within the rain column are computed using the T-matrix approach, and backscattering from the entire rain column that accounts for multiple-scattering and boundary interactions are determined by solving the vector radiative transfer equations. Model analyses and some data comparisons were conducted at Ku-Band using published measured/observed parameters. Results show that model predictions agree well with published TRMM measurements. More extensive model validation and analyses will be provided in the full paper.