Deep convective cloud phenomena in the upper troposphere/lower stratosphere - A new development in cloud science

All three phenomena described above are related to the deep convective cloud process near the tropopause. Traditional cloud physics studies are usually confined to lower to middle troposphere, mainly due to the relatively few observational platforms that can reach higher troposphere. Satellite techniques certainly are extremely useful but to interpret the data correctly we will need in-situ measurements and modeling. The properties of clouds associated with these phenomena are poorly understood. Basic cloud microphysical works related to the very low temperature environment are only beginning (e.g., Bailey and Hallett, 2002, 2004; Wang, 2003, 2004, 2005; Mullendore et al., 2005). Potential research works are needed to understand these phenomena and their implications. This represents a new research area in cloud science that requires more studies.