The documentation of characteristics of Vertical Atmospheric Soundings (VAS) through the use of statistical structure and correlation functions is presented. A measure of random error is also provided. Rawinsonde data from various periods is analyzed. Structure and correlation functions are used to compare VAS retrievals obtained using a physical algorithm with those from a regression technique. Results from both procedures are evaluated against those from a mesoscale network of rawinsonde stations. The parameters documented include temperature, mixing ratio, geopotential height, thickness, and precipitable water. Calculation are performed at several layers in the lower and upper troposphere
