What is the accuracy of vertical air flow speed in thermals (sailplane pilots use them to climb) measured using a doppler lidar. There are applications like SeeYou Navigator which provide information about thermals. I am curious about the kind of measurement methods in use to feed data to this kind of application (my guess is the doppler lidar) and what is the accuracy.
Kind regards
Cuma
Cuma Tyszkiewicz
Hi ,
In terms of accuracy, the specific accuracy of doppler lidar measurements can vary depending on several factors, such as the quality and capabilities of the lidar system itself, atmospheric conditions, and the distance between the lidar instrument and the target. It is challenging to provide a specific accuracy value without detailed information about the specific lidar system and its calibration.
Modern doppler lidar systems can generally provide accurate measurements of air flow velocities, including the vertical component in thermals. The accuracy can be within a few centimeters per second for low-velocity flows and up to several meters per second for higher-velocity flows.
It's important to note that the accuracy of the measurements can also be influenced by factors such as turbulence, the presence of aerosols or particles in the air, and the stability of the atmospheric conditions.
These factors can introduce some uncertainties in the measurements.
In the context of applications like SeeYou Navigator, which provide information about thermals for sailplane pilots, the accuracy of the doppler lidar measurements can be further enhanced by using additional data sources and advanced algorithms to improve the estimation of thermals' characteristics.
Overall, it is always advisable to consider the specific capabilities and limitations of the lidar system being used and consult the documentation or specifications provided by the manufacturer for accurate information on its accuracy in measuring vertical air flow speeds.
If you find this reply useful , please recommend it . Thanks
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Indexes