TREND IN GROUND-BASED GPS SENSING OF ATMOSPHERIC WATER VAPOUR: THE MALAYSIAN PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Atmospheric water vapour is the most variable component of the atmosphere. It plays a crucial role in Earth‘s energy balance and hydrological cycles. Because of its temporal and spatial variability, accurate measurement of atmospheric water vapour has been very challenging in meteorology. However, the Global Positioning System (GPS) offers detailed coverage, all weather and continuous observations. Therefore, exploring this potential to deliver atmospheric information is now termed ‘GPS meteorology’. This paper presents a brief overview of global trend in GPS meteorology while discussing GPS meteorology research efforts in Malaysia. A summary of the current research activity towards realisation of operational use of GPS meteorology in Malaysia is also highlighted.