WMO Global Campus Collection of Learning Resources

This online, self-directed lesson teaches the basics of satellite image interpretation to forecasters, meteorology students, and other interested learners, with an emphasis on the African region. It begins by briefly describing visible, infrared, and water vapour channels, as well as RGBs and derived products. From there, it teaches learners how to interpret clouds and surface features using various channels and products. This sets the stage for the final section, where learners practice identifying features using assorted imagery and products. The lesson uses Meteosat Second Generation imagery over Africa and, to a lesser extent, Europe. Given the similarities in channels between satellites, the lesson should also appeal to a broader, international audience. This lesson is designed to support EUMETSAT training courses, such as the online Satellite Application Courses run by EUMETSAT and the African training centers.