Microscale models of the atmosphere are designed to simulate small-scale flow systems (e.g. turbulence, vortices, air flows over obstacles) with a horizontal length scale ranging between a few meters and some 100 m.
Different microscale models are operated at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics, each one optimized for a specific purpose. They differ by the physical approximation (anelastic vs. compressible) or by the type of the numerical method. Microscale models are used, for example, for large-eddy simulations (LES) of turbulence, to calculate the behaviour of wake vortices and condensation trails behind aircraft and to simulate the flow over small obstacles such as hills, trees, buildings or noise barriers.
For wake vortex applications a number of models and model systems have been developed in parts together with other DLR institutes.