For the first time: Storm cloud structure seen from space

The interior structure of a storm cloud has been captured from orbit for the first time by the European and Japanese space agencies.

Captured by a Doppler radar on the European Space Agency’s (ESA) EarthCARE satellite, the image shows the internal structure and dynamics of storm clouds off the east coast of Japan.

The instrument used to capture the view was provided by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

The ice crystals, snowflakes, and raindrops seen in the image are routinely captured from the ground but never before from space.

It is hoped that even more detailed insights will arrive once the four instruments on the craft are fully calibrated.

Did you know that you can find insights into cloud coverage in the Weather & Radar app too?

When looking at the WeatherRadar, you can see the density of cloud cover overhead using the Sun and Moon symbols.

The more visible the symbols, the thinner the clouds. The harder it is to see them under the clouds, the thicker the clouds.

Initial insights from the satellite's other three instruments, provided by the ESA, are expected in the coming months.