In the News
These ocean drones are trawling for climate change data
A fleet of unmanned boats is traveling from the Arctic to the equator, gathering vital data on climate change.
The autonomous vessels -- called "Saildrones" -- resemble bright red surfboards. Each is fitted with a 20-foot-high carbon fiber sail, and 16 sensors that test variables including carbon dioxide, acidity, currents and water temperature.
A U.S. Collaboration Between Military and Research Science
Warming in Arctic ecosystems over the last several decades threatens animals and people alike, while melting ice has been accompanied by a dramatic increase in maritime activity. Yet study of the Arctic has been limited by its location and extreme weather conditions. New technologies and capabilities are necessary to operate in the region, and as attention to the high north grows, researchers and engineers are finding opportunities to expand their work despite uncertain funding. Tight budgets have pushed scientists to partner with institutions such as the U.S. Coast Guard in order to conduct quality research.
High-Tech ‘Saildrones’ To Help Predict El Niño, Collect Climate Data
Imagine being able to accurately predict extreme weather events such as hurricanes Harvey and Irma months in advance to better prepare those in their paths. Recently in San Francisco Bay, KPIX 5 caught a glimpse of such a future: a boat pulling two high-tech “saildrones” out to the Pacific.
NOAA Launches Drone Sailboats to Monitor El Nino
Two autonomous drone sailboats are ready to sail from Alameda on a six-month, eight thousand mile round trip to the equator. Paul Deanno reports.
This Drone Once Fought Wars. Now It’s Fighting Climate Change
THIS MARCH, A truck pulled onto a runway in Oregon, towing a miniature plane for a test flight. At 650 pounds, the plane was too large to be a toy, but too small to fit a pilot. That’s because the ArcticShark isn’t a toy, and it doesn’t need a pilot. It’s a drone.