1. Turbulence

Mountain waves, a common cause of turbulence, is usually not discernible on visible satellite images but readily detectable on water vapor images.

Click on the image to learn more about mountain wave turbulence from the CIMSS Satellite Blog.

2. Flight Plans
On any given day the FAA and individual pilots have to consider multiple aviation hazards and fuel costs to transport passengers safely cross country. Click on the image to test your satellite interpretation skills from a May 2010 case-study where you set the flight pattern, before & after take-off! Be sure to toggle between the different NOAA satellite images to detect clear air mountain waves and developing thunderstorms.