Chilbolton Atmospheric Observatory (CAO)

The Chilbolton Facility
(Credit: STFC)

The Chilbolton Atmospheric Observatory (CAO) is equipped with a wide range of advanced meteorological radars, lidars and radiometers for remote sensing of the atmosphere from the ground.

CAO is operated with support from the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). It is part of the Atmospheric Measurement and Observation Facility (AMOF) of the National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS).

The Observatory makes measurements of precipitation, clouds, meteorological conditions, aerosols, clear air turbulence and refractivity. Measurements of these key parameters make a major contribution to reducing current uncertainties in numerical weather and climate models.

In addition to improving the prediction of weather and climate change, the measurements are being used to study the atmospheric processes that lead to storms and flooding. The data collected at the facility are archived and distributed by the Centre for Environmental Data Analysis (CEDA).

For further information

• Chilbolton Observatory website
• RAL Space: Chilbolton Observatory
• Atmospheric Measurement and Observation Facility (AMOF)
• National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS)
• NERC
• CEDA