Microphysical retrieval from dual frequency precipitation radar board GPM

Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) is poised to be the next generation observations from space after Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM). The GPM mission concept is centered on the deployment of a core observatory satellite with an active dual-frequency radar (DPR), operating at Ku and Ka bands. The DPR is expected to improve our knowledge of precipitation processes relative to single-frequency radar on microphysics retrievals. Hydrometeor classification method is a key part of any microphysical retrieval algorithm. This paper is focused on the hydrometeor classification method which might be applied to GPM DPR and maps the results to Z_dr - DFR plane to cross verify with the pixel based hydrometer identification method. In addition a comparison is made between the DSD retrieval algorithm proposed by the author and other existing algorithm.