Measuring clouds in the tropics
In 2020, the Hamburg-based Max Planck Institute for Meteorology persues the unique field campaign EUREC4A above the tropical North Atlantic.
EUREC4A – Elucidating the Role of Cloud-Circulation Coupling in Climate – This measurement campaign at the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology aimed to gain a better understanding of the key factors involved in cloud and precipitation formation and to clarify whether clouds amplify or mitigate global warming. The measurements were taken around the island of Barbados, with the involvement of four research vessels, three aircraft, and various autonomous and remote-controlled platforms.
A high-performance C-Band-Radar POLDIRAD enables a broad extension of the analyzed area, and, for the first time, a spatial allocation of precipitation is possible. As the budget was lacking, our Supporting Members generously funded this radar and ensured the success of the campaign.