A new drone called MetSprite is taking to the skies to capture crucial weather data in even the harshest conditions.
Developed by United Kingdom-based aerospace company Menapia, this fully automated weather drone can conduct atmospheric observations up to 2 km (1.2 miles) above sea level in 97% of the UK's weather. For communities, this means more timely and accurate weather forecasts to help keep people safe.
MetSprite's precise meteorological sensors measure key data such as temperature, humidity, air pressure, and 3D wind. Near real-time readings are relayed in flexible formats for seamless integration into weather models.
What makes MetSprite special is its rugged design, optimized for efficiency in high winds and gusty conditions. The sealed, skin-cooled airframe handles a wide range of temperatures. Built-in parachutes with automatic deployment ensure safe landings in emergencies.
Menapia's team of robotics and software engineers spent a long time honing MetSprite's capabilities.
"MetSprite is the result of two years of extensive research, development, and rigorous testing," the Menapia website reads. "We are proud to say that our product has undergone intense scrutiny and has been proven to be safe and effective."
Instantaneous feedback loops and pushing the drone to its limits resulted in this robust iteration.
Menapia's mission is to fill critical gaps in boundary layer observations, the chaotic first few kilometers of the atmosphere that most impact weather but are challenging to measure. MetSprite's automation and reusability makes high-quality atmospheric profiling more cost-effective than weather balloons and other limited technologies.
Better boundary layer data will improve weather forecast accuracy for all. Menapia envisions MetSprite networks enhancing our understanding of the atmosphere and reducing society's vulnerability to severe weather events in a changing climate.
"There is a significant gap in observations in this region, which fundamentally limits our understanding and forecast skill," Menapia says. "MetSprite takes a new approach, utilizing weather drones to repeatedly profile the boundary layer and unlock greater atmospheric understanding."
As climate-fueled weather extremes escalate, innovations such as MetSprite will play a key role in building resilience. With a namesake that nods to an ancient seafaring tribe that persevered in harsh conditions, Menapia aims to help modern communities navigate today's turbulent weather.
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