Technical note A low-cost high-quality system for the acquisition and digital processing of images of WEFAX type provided by meteorological geostationary satellites

Abstract

A low-cost high-quality system for the processing of satellite data received in the WEFAX analogue format is presented. It is composed of a receiver with its antenna connected to a personal computer with digitizing and graphic boards. The software automatically performs the storage of data onto the hard disk, contrast enhancement and false colour display, accurate navigation and animation loops. Interactive features are also available. Such a system is of great use in meteorological education, in weather forecasting and in environmental research. Taking into account the peculiarities of the WEFAX format, some algorithms have been devised lo correct for atmospheric depletion. Ground albedo can therefore be evaluated accurately on a pixel basis as well as global irradiation, cloud coverage and atmospheric global transmission.