The CRPE minisodar: Applications in micrometeorology and in physics of precipitations

Abstract The technical characteristics of the CRPE minisodar are described and it is compared with the classical Doppler sodar. The results of surface layer analysis are given and simple methods are demonstrated for estimating the sensible heat flux and friction velocity in the surface layer. The system is shown to be feasible for working on the birth of gravity waves and the analysis of wind profile and turbulence evolution. Hydrometeorological studies with the minisodar are discussed with special emphasis on the problem of the relationship between wind shear in the surface layer and hydrometeor fall speed. In the conclusion, the prospective uses of the minisodar are presented.