The NWP contribution from the microwave sounder (MWS) on MetOp-Second Generation

MWS is a total power radiometer that has been selected by ESA as part of the MetOp-SG programme, with Airbus Defence and Space Ltd, chosen as the instrument prime contractor. MWS measures the brightness temperature at various altitudes and delivers calibrated and geo-located atmospheric temperature and water-vapour sounding data, in all weather and illumination conditions. MWS is thus an essential instrument for the provision of operational meteorology, offering significant improvements in measurement performance over MetOp First Generation and indeed all microwave sounders currently operating on meteorological satellites. This paper describes the MWS instrument key design features, predicted performance, development status of associated key technology developments, both at equipment and instrument level, and the current status of equipment procurement and instrument MAIT, including the MWS calibration plan. MWS data processing to level 1b is also described.