Satellite hyperspectral IR sensing: investigating water vapor variability using AIRS data

In this paper, samples of AIRS data in the 1215 to 1615 cm -1 spectral region are analyzed to better understand the effects of water vapor in the mid to upper tropospheric region. Two days representing mid-latitude (20°-40° N) summer (warm and moist) and winter (cold and dry) maritime conditions are selected with cloud-free and 100% cloudy FOVs. The data, both in trend and differences, are well explained by the respective changes in atmospheric temperature and water vapor. These data are then compared with model simulation using MODTRAN. The results also compare favorably. Model simulation further illustrates the value of high spectral resolution for monitoring change in water vapor particularly in the upper troposphere. With the future GOES-R and NPOESS hyperspectral sensors expected to provide much improved atmospheric profile information, better monitoring of atmospheric water vapor will lead to improvements both in weather and climate applications.