# Evaluation of filtering techniques to increase the reliability of meteo forecasts for ground-based telescopes

## TL;DR

This paper evaluates filtering techniques that utilize real-time telescope sensor data to improve the accuracy of optical turbulence and atmospheric forecasts, aiding better telescope operation and observation planning.

## Contribution

It introduces and assesses filtering methods that enhance mesoscale atmospheric forecasts using real-time sensor data, improving prediction reliability for ground-based telescopes.

## Key findings

- Filtering techniques reduce forecast biases and trends.
- Enhanced forecast accuracy benefits telescope operation and scheduling.
- Real-time data integration improves short-term atmospheric predictions.

## Abstract

In this contribution we evaluate the impact of filtering techniques in enhancing the accuracy of forecasts of optical turbulence and atmospheric parameters critical for ground-based telescopes. These techniques make use of the data continuously provided by the telescope sensors and instruments to improve the performances of real-time forecasts which have an impact on the telescope operation. In previous works we have already shown how a mesoscale high-frequency forecast (Meso-NH and Astro-Meso-Nh models) can produce reliable predictions of different atmospheric parameters and the optical turbulence. The mesoscale forecast has an advantage on the global model in having a better implementation of the physical atmospheric processes, including turbulence, and produces an output with greater spatial resolution (up to 100m or beyond). Filtering techniques that make use of the real-time sensor data at the telescope may help in removing potential biases and trends which have an impact on short term mesoscale forecast and, as a consequence, may increase the accuracy of the final output. Given the complexity and cost of present and future top-class telescope installations, each improvement of forecasts of future observing conditions will definitely help in better allocating observing time, especially in queue-mode operation, and will definitely benefit the scientific community in medium-long term.