L (Linda) Bogerd MSc

Project: Deepening our understanding of (shallow) precipitation observations from space.

Accurate precipitation observations are vital for various environmental applications that are integral to modern society, including crop yield assessment, flash flood forecasting, water management, and drought monitoring. Satellite-based remote sensing offers a unique opportunity to estimate global precipitation patterns. However, understanding the uncertainties associated with satellite-based precipitation retrieval is crucial before it can be effectively applied in hydrology and meteorology. Additionally, improvements are necessary, as accurately retrieving high-latitude precipitation - such as low-intensity, frozen, and shallow precipitation -remains challenging for retrieval methods based on spaceborne sensors.

My PhD research focused on three key objectives: 1) quantifying the quality of the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) products, 2) enhancing our understanding of precipitation processes, and 3) leveraging these insights to improve space-based precipitation retrieval algorithms. While I explored various spaceborne sensors, I had a particular focus on precipitation retrieval using radiometers.

Although my PhD research was mostly focused on spaceborne retrieval, I have a strong interest in precipitation remote sensing in general, incuding innovative retrieval products derived from commercial microwave links (CML). CML data can estimate precipitation by analyzing the attenuation of radio signals caused by raindrops between a transmitter and receiver. During my PhD, we explored the potential to combine precipitation estimates from spaceborne radiometers with CML data. Furthermore, I focused on enhancing the retrieval of various hydrometeor types, such as snowflakes, raindrops, and hailstones, using operational weather radars.