Information and reference manuals for data users are archived, including operation information of satellite and sensors,data and product information, PR algorithm instruction manuals, data handling manuals, etc.@@
After an instrument anomaly on May 29, 2009 the TRMM PR resumed
observations on June 17th, 2009. All TRMM PR production data
is currently being held until a calibration effort is completed by
JAXA. Our intention was to be able to release the calibrated,
post-anomaly PR data by the end of Sept. 2009 but that has not
been possible.
The recalibration effort by JAXA has required internal and external
calibrations utilizing the ground-based Active Radar Calibrator.
The impact of the new calibration curve on the rain retrievals is
being examined by JAXA and the PR Team. Particular attention is
being given to any biases introduced and changes in noise levels
that impact sensitivity to ensure that continuity of the
retrievals can be preserved on either side of the anomaly date.
The TRMM PR is still recording observations which the ground system
is receiving, all PR housekeeping indicate the radar is operating
normally and the instrument is in good condition. Users can expect
the only permanent gap in TRMM PR data due to this anomaly to
start on May 29, 2009 and last through June 17-19, 2009. The
exact dates and orbit numbers will be designated by JAXA.
TRMM PR real-time data is continuing to be produced and made available
to real-time users with the qualification that the retrievals are
suspect. Real-time users should contact PPS for concerns regarding
data quality.
JAXA will be briefing the Joint Precipitation Science Team at the
upcoming PMM meeting in Utah at the end of October, 2009. Be assured
that JAXA, the PR Team and NASA are working to get high quality rain
retrievals out to all users as soon as possible.