NEFOCAST
In spite of the variety of existing methods to measure precipitation, the retrieval of rainfall fields is still a matter of research, because of the high number of applications in different fields critically dependent on rainfall data and thus demanding for upgraded precisions in quantity estimation, spatial distribution and resolution, as well as for homogeneous retrieval over large domains. Telecommunication technologies can bring relevant information on rainfall rate, through the measurement of the attenuation caused by raindrops on broadcast satellite signals, albeit not specifically developed for this.
NEFOCAST is a FAR-FAS research project funded by the Tuscany Region Government (Italy) that aims at setting up, and demonstrating through field experiments, the concept of a system able to provide precipitation maps in real-time based on the attenuation measurements collected by a dense population of interactive satellite terminals (called SmartLNB, smart Low-Noise Block converter) commercially used as bidirectional modems. The system does not require the set-up of specific precipitation measuring instruments, but uses telecommunication links.
Technology demonstrated in relevant environment.
Representative model or prototype system, which is well beyond that of TRL 5, is tested in a relevant environment. Represents a major step up in a technology’s demonstrated readiness. Examples include testing a prototype in a high-fidelity laboratory environment or in a simulated operational environment.
Representative model or prototype system, which is well beyond that of TRL 5, is tested in a relevant environment. Represents a major step up in a technology’s demonstrated readiness. Examples include testing a prototype in a high-fidelity laboratory environment or in a simulated operational environment.
The NEFOCAST system has been initially tested in lab and first assumptions on the algorithms implemented in the service centre have been defined.
In 2018 an experimental network of SmartLNBs has been deployed in Florence and other areas of Tuscany and analysed through a co-located raingauge network and a doppler polarimetric X-band radar for cal/val objectives.
Initlal alghoritms have been revised and improved, while validation of the models and of the solution is in progress.
How does it work?
The NEFOCAST project aims at setting up and validating a system able to provide precipitation maps in real-time based on the attenuation measurements collected by a dense population of interactive satellite terminals(called SmartLNBs), designed to be used as bidirectional modems for commercial interactive TV applications. The system does not require the deployment of specific precipitation measuring devices. The attractiveness of this system is due to the possibility of using a huge amount of attenuation measurements from a widespread network of low cost domestic terminals, especially in urban areas, where a very high density of measurements can be achieved.
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