MAQ-30306 Atmospheric Practical


Studiepunten 6.00

Excursion (multiple days)39
Course coordinator(s)Msc IB Benedict
Lecturer(s)Msc IB Benedict
dr. WD van den Berg
dr. ir. OK Hartogensis
dr. GJ Steeneveld
Examiner(s)dr. GJ Steeneveld

Language of instruction:


Assumed knowledge on:

MAQ-10306 Introduction Atmosphere, MAQ-21806 Meteorology and Climate

Continuation courses:

SGL-80812 BSc thesis Soil, Water, Atmosphere, MAQ-32806 Atmospheric Dynamics, MAQ-31806 Atmospheric Modelling


This course gives an introduction to the forecasting cycle, i.e. the process of getting from weather data and –models to a forecast for different end-users. To this end, the course first deals with the processing, analysis, synthesis and presentation of large amounts of meteorological data, i.e. both synoptic and aerological observations, satellite, weather radar observations, and model output. Thereto students learn to work with a meteorological workstation and basic Python scripts. Furthermore, students analyse the structure of weather systems on the synoptic scale and mesoscale and apply theory to estimate the magnitude of atmospheric quantities. Subsequently, this course also deals with the analysis and interpretation of model output leading to weather forecasting, as weather models have become a vital element therein. Thereafter, the course addresses the final step in the forecast cycle, i.e. how to effectively communicate the weather forecast to different customers and media. Finally, a number of meteorological and/or climatological research centres in Germany are visited in order to gain insight into weather forecasting practices, current research and job opportunities in this field.
For planning and logistics, students should register for this course no later than December 15.

Learning outcomes:

- identify and recognize the different types of meteorological data and how often these are available;
- modify, analyse and interpret different types of meteorological data;
- explain and discuss the relation between several atmospheric quantities varying in space and time;
- monitor, observe and analyse the weather situation, and perform a professional forecast using real-time or historical data;
- communicate a weather forecast for different customers groups and media;
- discriminate and evaluate the research performed at the various research facilities offering meteorological services, education and data abroad (Germany);
- appraise the career perspective, research activities, meteorological disseminated data and services provided by EUMETSAT, or similar institutes in Germany.


- perform and report (written) on all practical exercises in a methodical and efficient manner;
- perform an oral weather briefing;
- develop a basic forecast tool based on literature and model data
- active participation in an excursion to a weather forecast provider to exercise communication of weather forecasts;
- taking part in an excursion abroad and writing a short report.


- all units in the practical part of the course (weeks 1 - 3) should be completed;
- practical units of weeks 1 and 2 are each assessed in an open book practical assignment. This part counts for 40%;
- weather briefing (in pairs) is assessed according to criteria in a rubric. This part counts for 30%; - development of a forecast tool is assessed according to criteria in a rubric. This part counts for 10%;
- the excursion (week 4) will be assessed by means of the written report (in pairs) according to criteria in a rubric. This part counts for 20% of the final grade.


- Reader (available from the WUR-shop)
- Material on Brightspace

Keuze voor: BSWSoil, Water, AtmosphereBSc4WD