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The Split Window (12.0 µm) Channel

Channel No. Central Wavelength (µm) Sample sub-point (E/W x N/S)
Resolution (km)
Common Reference
5 12.0 2.3 x 4.00 dirty window/split window IR

The 12.0 µm Channel 5 imagery is similar to that from Channel 4 (10.7 µm), except that this wavelength has a unique sensitivity to low-level water vapor. Used alone, it often appears identical to the Channel 4 imagery (see example below). However, when combined with the corresponding Channel 4 data, the subtle differences between them can be used to help the forecaster identify low-level moisture fields (as will be discussed further in the following section on Combined Image Products).

This example shows a Channel 4 and a Channel 5 image of the same scene at the same time. [Click on the "Forward" button to begin an automated sequencing between the two, or alternatively, click alternately between the "+1" and the "-1" buttons for a slower pace.] As you can see, the two are nearly indistinguishable.

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