FRM4RADAR – 94 GHz Miniature Network for EarthCARE Reference Measurements was a project that aimed to deploy, operate, and utilize cloud radar data at two new sites — one in Sweden and one in Romania — in order to extend the geographical coverage of cloud observations in Europe towards the North and East. The project also aimed to facilitate the transfer of expertise from the University of Cologne (UC) to INOE and SMHI, and to promote joint research activities with FMI for the adjustment and implementation of the Cloudnet algorithm suite. According to the Statement of Work, the project was structured into five major tasks (referred to as Work Packages – WP), focusing on the procurement, installation, and testing of the instruments, the definition of operational and data handling procedures, and the development of specific products for EarthCARE calibration and validation (Cal/Val). Special attention was intended to be given to the quality control of various levels of data products, as well as to evaluating the usefulness of low-cost Doppler radars in the Cal/Val of satellite products and in cloud microphysics research.
The project ran between 2018 to 2023.