Observations from Space and Thermal Convection: A Historical Perspective

Abstract

An abbreviated historical account of the evolution of the satellite meteorology program is presented. Emphasis is placed on the importance of the satellite and its space platform for observing and studying atmospheric convection. Particular attention is focused on the role of the space program in establishing atmospheric manifestations of Benard-Rayleigh convection, as well as on the applicability of classical thermal convection studies to atmospheric processes. Examples of mesoscale cellular convection and related convective phenomena are presented and discussed briefly.