Cloud Liquid Water Content Sensor for Radiosondes, Phase I

Icing is one of the most significant hazards to aircraft. There is still much research to be completed with regard to developing remote-sensing technologies for accurately identifying where icing conditions exist in clouds. There is a need to provide in-situ measurements of cloud liquid water content to validate the remote measurements. Anasphere, Inc. proposes to develop a modernized version of the classic vibrating wire cloud liquid water content sensor. This modernized version will apply updated technology to the measurement, and more importantly will add a droplet sizing capability that the original versions of these sensors lacked. It will be designed to be compatible with a wide variety of radiosondes. Phase I will see the development and laboratory testing of the improved probe, its incorporation into a droplet sizing system, and finally actual test flights into clouds. Phase II work will involve developing more precise calibration methods, improving manufacturability, and extensive test flights.