Scatterometer algorithms and meso-scale regimes

Algorithms have been formulated to relate C-band backscatter to friction velocity as well to neutral wind estimates. In situ wind and surface friction velocity (winds stress) data were obtained in the ERS-1 footprint from a research vessel off the west Norwegian coast (Haltenbankken) during November 1991. The calibration/validation effort part of in the NORwegian Continental Shelf EXperiment (NORCSEX). Time and spatial coincident ERS-1 backscatter and ship friction velocity values are examined for one scatterometer pass. Regional winds during this time ranged from 5 to 15 ms/sup -1/ and friction velocities were estimated from both turbulence and bulk methods. Comparisons are made between backscatter derived and in situ estimated friction velocities. Comparisons are also made with in situ measured backscatter from ship mounted radars.