WindSat atmospheric forward model comparisons

An algorithm that characterizes the measured brightness temperature components due to the atmosphere for the WindSat instrument is described. This study looks at the attenuation due to clear air and non-precipitating clouds in the frequency range of WindSat. A performance assessment of current radiative transfer models and atmospheric absorption models is preformed using comparisons with SSM/I with near-coincident radiosonde profiles of the atmosphere and buoy observations of the surface wind fields. Results of this effort will be reported.