TOWR-S RPM v22 Feature: Rocket Plume RGBs

March 1, 2022

 

Q. What are GOES Rocket Plume RGBs?
A: GOES Rocket Plume Red-Green-Blue (RGB) enhancements combine imagery bands for viewing signatures associated with rocket launches. The improved time, space and spectral attributes of the GOES-R series allow for monitoring plumes from rockets as well as other hotspots.

The Rocket Plume RGB was developed by Tim Schmit (NESDIS/CIMSS) and Bill Line (NESDIS/CIRA). It provides a quick-look signal associated with these phenomena. There are two versions in AWIPS given the dependency upon solar illumination. The IR-only "nighttime" version can be used both day and night. More details on the GOES Day Plume RGB can be found here in this Quick Guide. Similarly, details on the Night Plume RGB can be found here.

 

Animation Credit: Tim Schmit (CIMSS)

 

Q. How do I get the Rocket Plume RGBs in AWIPS?
A: The RGBs are a feature of TOWR-S RPM Version 22 (released Feb 8, 2022), which is available for AWIPS at Weather Forecast Offices and River Forecast Centers.  Upon installing the RPM, go to Satellite, Local Menu Items, then the Rocket Plume RGBs submenu, where there are both Conus and Mesoscale sector menu buttons. Click here for instructions on installing TOWR-S RPM Version 22.

 

 

Q. Can I use this to view the GOES-T satellite launch on March 1?
A: Yes! If your office has TOWR-S RPM Version 22 installed on your AWIPS workstation(s), we encourage you to check it out! See above for how to access the RGB in AWIPS. The two-hour launch window opens at 4:38 p.m. ET. Visit the NESDIS GOES-T launch webpage linked here for more information.

 

Questions?

If you have any questions about the GOES Rocket Plume RGBs, the TOWR-S RPM, or for any other questions or feedback, please do not hesitate to contact Lee Byerle (lee.byerle@noaa.gov) or John Evans (john.d.evans@noaa.gov). You can also contact us in the NWSChat “towr-s” chatroom.