The determination of cloud pattern motions from geosynchronous satellite image data

摘要

Cloud motion can be determined from sequential pictures obtained from the geosynchronous Applications Technology Satellites, ATS-I and ATS-III. Experiments have been conducted using two automated techniques for computing the cloud motions over the time interval between two digitized pictures. One technique is a direct application of cross-correlation using the fast Fourier Transform (fFT). In the other, a relatively simple matching technique is used in the computer to recognize binary images of cloud fields on each member of a picture pair. Results obtained from the two techniques are similar. The computed directions are in good agreement with those determined by manual methods with indications that computed speeds are more accurately resolved than those determined manually.