The mini-symposium “Studying the Atmosphere to Understand the Universe: Key Variables and Their Impact on Astronomical Observations ” will be held by the representatives of the ALMA Observatory, Opencadd, and CETENS UFRB.
Dra. Priscilla Nowajewski Barra / Data Analyst & Climatologist, ALMA Observatory
Dra. Ximena Celia Méndez Cubillos / Application Engineer, OPENCADD Advanced Technology
Dr. Jairo Cavalcanti Amaral / Professor Adjunto I, Engenheiro Eletrônico, Presidente do NDE do Bacharelado em Eng. de Energias CETENS-UFRB, Professor Colaborador do Mestrado Profissional em Astronomia UEFS
Summary
This mini-symposium aims to explore the fundamental atmospheric variables that influence the quality and operations of ground-based astronomical observatories, presenting modern technologies and approaches for their characterization and mitigation. Key topics to be covered include:
Site Testing for Ground-Based Astronomy: Identifying key variables such as turbulence, precipitable water vapor (PWV), and wind speed. Using local sensors and satellite data to select optimal sites for astronomical observations.
Use of Atmospheric Forecasts: Applications of numerical models, such as ECMWF, for observation planning and optimization. Benefits of forecasting in mitigating operational losses due to adverse atmospheric conditions.
Atmospheric Waves and Their Impact on Pathlength: Recent results on the characterization of atmospheric waves at the ALMA observatory. Integration of satellite data and local measurements to study the impact of large-scale atmospheric structures.
This mini symposium will provide a platform for astronomy, meteorology, and space sciences experts to discuss interdisciplinary approaches and collaborations. It will be an ideal setting for fostering innovation and addressing the challenges posed by the Earth’s atmosphere to ground-based astronomical observations.