Popular Science reports that the researchers are participants in the“Collaboration Leading Operational Unmanned Development for Meteorology and Atmospheric Physics” (CLOUD MAP) project, developing drone technology for weather research. Monday, the scientists will take advantage of the unique characteristics of the eclipse in order to learn more about the sun’s influence on weather patterns, flying during the totality.
“Drones are ideal because they can fly above towers and below where manned aircraft and balloons operate,” says the article. “It’s this lower atmospheric boundary layer that the drones are built to study.”
Scientists say that many unstable weather phenomena, such as tornadoes and thunderstorms, form when the sun comes out and begins to heat up the ground. The eclipse offers a unique opportunity to study the change during the daytime.
The drones that the team will use feature sensors to measure all types of atmospheric conditions: temperature, humidity, air pressure, and wind. In addition, the drones are equipped with light sensors and infrared cameras to capture images. The drones will augment readings from balloons sent into the sky in an effort to get a complete view of conditions.
Dr. Jamey Jacob, a professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at OSU, is one of the team of researchers. Jacob and his team are now well-known for the development of drones designed to study severe weather, including tornadoes; and has been instrumental in bringing OSU’s drone programs to international attention. Dr. Jacob has worked on numerous projects including designing a drone for flight on Mars.
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
TWITTER:@spaldingbarker
Subscribe to DroneLife here.