VIPIR (radar)
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VIPIR radar is a scientific weather radar system which integrates each of the following: 3D radar, storm tracker, snow machine, and a highly accurate thermometer. It is manufactured by Baron Services, Inc., of Huntsville, Alabama.
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[edit] How VIPIR Works
[edit] Volumetric Imaging
VIPIR uses 3D imaging rather than standard 2D graphics when displaying data. Imagery can be rotated 360 degrees up or down or from side to side. If imagery is zoomed in at an adequate range, actual satellite data appears. This becomes particularly convenient if a specific venue needs to be pinpointed in relation to a severe weather event for the purpose of life safety. Its radar appears in realtime, obtaining the most recent information every minute.
VIPIR may also be used to view the amount of rainfall that falls in one hour, for example, in a particular location.
[edit] Storm Tracking
VIPIR automatically pinpoints the most severe storm in an area. It is identified by a line pointing in the general direction the storm is moving. If a storm is capable of producing a tornado or if Doppler radar detects atmospheric rotation, a red (yellow when VIPIR is tilted) rotating cylinder appears. These cylinders are what the National Weather Service (NWS) defines as "tornado vortex signatures," although the technical VIPIR definition is "wind shear."
[edit] Snow Machine
VIPIR's Snow Machine pinpoints and tracks snowfall events and predicts snowfall totals in excess of 24 hours in advance. Snow Machine accurately displays the areas where snow is most eminent, including where sleet and a wintry mix will be dominant. VIPIR Snow Machine obtains the most recent data possible every five minutes.
