The Global Precipitation Climatology Project (GPCP) Combined Precipitation Dataset
Abstract
The Global Precipitation Climatology Project (GPCP) has released the GPCP Version 1 Combined Precipitation Data Set, a global, monthly precipitation dataset covering the period July 1987 through December 1995. The primary product in the dataset is a merged analysis incorporating precipitation estimates from low-orbit-satellite microwave data, geosynchronous-orbit-satellite infrared data, and rain gauge observations. The dataset also contains the individual input fields, a combination of the microwave and infrared satellite estimates, and error estimates for each field. The data are provided on 2.5 x2.5 latitude-longitude global grids. Preliminary analyses show general agreement with prior studies of global precipitation and extends prior studies of El Nino-Southern Oscillation precipitation patterns. At the regional scale there are systematic differences with standard climatologies.
Funding
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- European Space Agency
- European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
- Goddard Space Flight Center
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