A subtropical convergence line of the South Pacific: A case study using meteorological satellite data

A subtropical convergence line in the southwest Pacific some 2000 miles long has been recorded by television pictures of Tiros I on May 11 and 12, 1960. The standard meteorological data have been analyzed and compared with the pictorial data. It is shown that although this synoptic system was vigorous and well documented by the pictures, its existence and extent cannot be delineated by standard meteorological observations. The tropical area pictured is shown to contain no vigorous disturbances and the value of such pictures to the tropical analyst is discussed.