Cloud Observatory is used to observe cloud and rain processes over a particular region with state of the art observations. Its use is significant for a better understanding of weather and especially rainfall. The topic comes under Geography subject for IAS Exam. Aspirants can download the notes PDF too.
This article will provide recent developments related to Cloud observatory.
Cloud Observatories in India
The following are the cloud observatories in India:
| Cloud Observatory in India | |
| S.No | Location of Cloud Observatory |
| 1. | Himalayan Cloud Observatory – Tehri (Uttarakhand) |
| 2. | Munnar Observatory – Kerala |
| 3. | Breamore Observatory – Kerala |
| 4. | NCESS Campus Observatory – Kerala |
Key Facts about Cloud Observatories in India
| Cloud Observatory in India | |
| Name of Cloud Observatory | Features |
| Tehri Cloud Observatory |
|
| Munnar Cloud Observatory |
|
| Breamore Cloud Observatory |
|
| NCESS Campus Observatory |
|
Application of Cloud Observatory – Munnar
- High altitude cloud physics observatory at Munnar is used to observe cloud and rain processes over that region with state of the art observations. Such a facility will enable understanding of rainfall distribution and will allow better characterization of rainfall processes in the numerical models used for prediction of monsoon rainfall.
Uses of Cloud Observatory – Munnar
- It is normal that long haul observing of cloud and precipitation procedures will empower precise portrayal of cloud microphysical process in estimate models to enhance the overall ability of precipitation expectation for serious climate marvels viz, overwhelming precipitation, thunderstorm and so forth., complete Kerala as well as for the entire nation.
Functional Cloud Physics Laboratories
- High altitude cloud physics laboratories are functional at Mahabaleshwar (Konkan) and Munnar (Kerala) to study the monsoon cloud microphysics process modulated by the Western Ghats only and hence no such additional facility is contemplated.
- Studies were undertaken in four climate-sensitive regions of the country, viz. Himalayan Region, Western Ghats, North Eastern Region and Coastal Areas to assess the possible impacts on the four sectors viz. agriculture, water, forests and health and associated ecosystem.
Cloud Observatory – UPSC GS-I Notes:- Download PDF Here
Frequently asked Questions about Cloud Observatories
Q1
What is the purpose of Cloud Observatories?
The purpose of cloud observatories is to monitor activities of clouds at high altititude. It also monitors wind speed and direction of the clouds.
Q2
What was the result of the establishment of the Breamore Observatory?
In order to understand convective thundercloud formation and the associated lightning phenomena, the National Centre for Earth Science Studies (NCESS) established an observatory on the western slope of the Western Ghats at Braemore, adjoining the Ponmudi Hills near Trivandrum. Measurements from the observatory have shown that Western Ghat mountain slope leads to thundercloud formation. The results also indicate that the existence of strong updrafts followed by the formation of thunderclouds provide an ideal situation to study the Cb formation and electrical characteristics of lightning discharges. More studies are being planned to understand the convective thundercloud formation and the lightning associated with it.
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