Publication of the GRUAN Manual-Guide (GCOS-271)

Document

The GRUAN manual-guide replaces the existing GRUAN manual (GCOS-170) and guide (GCOS-171), and provides an update for various operational aspects of GRUAN such as the measurement practices and station requirements for GRUAN sites.

With the manual-guide a new document structure is envisaged for information on the operation and implementation of GRUAN. The comprehensive GRUAN manual and guide covered a wide range of topics, such as operations, technical specifications, network structure, and data processing and dissemination. Instead, the new manual-guide provides a basic skeleton of the essential operational aspects, and for other topics it serves as an access point with references to the relevant Technical Notes and Technical Documents.

 

The GCOS Reference Upper-Air Network (GRUAN) Manual and Guide

GCOS-271

Details

ID
GCOS-271
Title
The GCOS Reference Upper-Air Network (GRUAN) Manual and Guide
Publisher
World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
Last version
v1.1 (2026-02)
Status
Published
Download
PDF

Abstract

The GRUAN Manual (GCOS-170) and the accompanying GRUAN Guide to Operations (GCOS-171) consolidate the essential framework for network operations, providing a comprehensive overview of measurement procedures and technical requirements. These documents establish mandatory operating protocols and guidelines designed to assist participating sites, the GRUAN Lead Centre, and the WG-GRUAN in achieving the network’s strategic objectives. The primary mission of GRUAN is to provide vertical profiles of reference measurements suitable for the reliable detection of global and regional climate changes. Furthermore, these observations serve as a traceable reference standard for the calibration and validation of satellite-based measurements of atmospheric Essential Climate Variables (ECVs). This document serves to update and refine the measurement practices and station requirements previously set forth in the existing Manual and Guide. It is intended to function as a unified access point to these technical specifications for all station operators and GRUAN stakeholders, ensuring consistency and streamlined implementation across the network.

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