Characterization of Uncertainty in Measurements of Wind from the NSF/NCAR Gulfstream V Research Aircraft

It begins with a description of the instruments used to make the needed measurements and the algorithms used for calculation of wind. Three systems are described, the primary system in depth, a new system based on a gust pod in lesser detail, and a laser air motion sensor still under development.

In addition to specifying the characteristics of the component measurements and propagating their uncertainty to the final measurement of wind, the document presents detailed information on how the measurements are calibrated, processed to incorporate corrections, and checked with flight maneuvers. The results are presented in terms of standard uncertainties where possible, so if for example coverage intended to match 95% confidence intervals is desired the values quoted should be doubled.