CloudSat "quicklook" images are generated from the Level 0 Cloud Profiling Radar instrument data - that is, the data that are collected directly from the satellite without any calibration or other corrections being applied. These images are intended to provide a very rapid look at the performance of the instrument and, potentially, to provide a quick look (thus the name) at cloud systems that might be of interest to the general science community who might use the actual CPR data to do additional research.

It is important for users to know that the quicklook images are views of raw data that have not been calibrated and, though infrequent, may contain errors in geolocation due to occasional orbit adjustments or other anomalies that might occur in the transmission of data through the global tracking and communications network. These images should not be used operationally and are placed here to provide an opportunity for meteorologists around the world to enjoy viewing these exciting new data.

Most of the CloudSat quicklook images are displayed in the context of global infrared satellite imagery. These global data are a composite of geostationary imagery provided by the National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) and AVHRR imagery provided by NOAA's Comprehensive Large Array-data Stewardship System (CLASS).

In addition, some of the full resolution quicklook segments include corresponding MODIS imagery. MODIS swaths may contain geolocation shifts, missing data, or missing images and are only intended for context purposes