Estimation of Cloud Motion Using Cross-Correlation

This paper describes the estimation of cloud motion using lag cross-correlation. In order to compute the lag cross correlation, the Bayes Decision method is used first to identify cloud and surface or earth. Then cloud motion vectors are retrieved at a subset of points through multiple applications of a cross-correlation analysis. An objective analysis is used to define displacement at every satellite pixel throughout the domain and smooth the local inconsistencies. Cloud motions are then produced with a backward trajectory technique by using these displacement vectors.