Evaluation of a balanced 300-mb height analysis as a reference level for satellite-derived soundings

A technique is developed and evaluated for using wind observations through application of the balance equation to improve the accuracy of objective height analysis in regions between height observations to provide reliable reference heights for satellite derived soundings. At upper levels (near 300 mb), numerous aircraft winds and satellite observed cloud vector winds are available for this purpose. In regions of moderate size, where the height analysis is determined primarily by winds and where the winds are deemed sufficiently dense and accurate, the technique produces interpolated height values with an estimated rms error of 30 m or less 80 to 85% of the time. Where these conditions are met it is concluded that the technique provides reliable reference heights.