Advanced applications of Ice Cloud Imager data

Research Project, 2022 – 2025

The first steps with a brand new space-based weather instrument.

In a few years, a completely new type of weather observation will be introduced via the launch of ICI (Ice Cloud Imager). This satellite instrument will perform measurements in a previously unexploited wavelength range. Current weather instruments cannot determine how much ice is present in thicker clouds, which creates shortcomings in both weather forecasts and climate models. ICI has the potential to fill this knowledge gap, but information does not automatically come from the instrument. New tools and methods must be developed to truly utilize ICI.

We are and have been very active in the preparations for ICI. In this project, we are carrying out further development, but mainly ensuring that high-quality data is generated immediately after ICI has started its observations. Based on our preparations, we can perform more advanced and complete processing than others. For example, we will apply a method based on AI that we ourselves introduced. A key part of the project is to combine measurements from ICI and other instruments. The overall goal is to offer unique data for climate studies and support the use of ICI at SMHI and other weather centers around the world.