Atmospheric Infrared Sounder
Overview
The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) is a facility instrument onboard the Aqua satellite, a part of NASA's EOS project. Launched in 2002, AIRS, along with its partner instruments, the Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit (AMSU) and the Humidity Sounder for Brazil (HSB), aims to support climate research and improve weather forecasting.
Design and Function
AIRS uses cutting-edge infrared technology to obtain data about the Earth's atmosphere, surface, and cloud cover. It measures upwelling radiation from the Earth's surface and atmosphere in the infrared and microwave spectrum, which is then used to create three-dimensional maps of air and surface temperature, water vapor, and cloud properties.
Data Collection and Analysis
The data collected by AIRS is critical in studying changes in the Earth's climate and predicting weather patterns. It provides a detailed view of the atmospheric state, including the vertical distribution of temperature, humidity, and trace gases such as ozone, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and methane.
Applications
The data collected by AIRS has wide-ranging applications. It is used in numerical weather prediction models, climate models, and process-oriented studies, contributing to our understanding of Earth's climate and weather patterns.