NASA successfully launched two satellites from New Zealand on Monday. These satellites are specifically designed to track tropical cyclones in real-time, potentially leading to improved weather predictions for these destructive storms.
Built by US company Rocket Lab, the newly deployed storm trackers have a significant advantage over current satellites. While existing satellites can only pass over hurricanes every six hours, these advanced satellites will provide hourly updates. This means that researchers will be able to observe and analyze the evolving nature of storms on a much more frequent basis.
Flagship satellites already in orbit
According to NASA scientist Will McCarty, the purpose of these satellites is to complement the larger existing satellites rather than replace them. The data collected by the storm trackers will enhance the information provided by the flagship satellites already in orbit.
In approximately two weeks, a second Rocket Lab-built vessel is scheduled to launch, carrying two additional satellites. This will complete a small constellation of four storm-tracking satellites. The combined data on rainfall, temperature, and humidity collected by these satellites will enable scientists to better predict the path and intensity of hurricanes, assisting coastal communities in taking necessary precautions and preparing for potential evacuations.
Ben Kim, a program executive at NASA, emphasized the readiness of operational organizations such as the National Hurricane Center and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center to utilize the tropical imagery provided by these satellites. The real-time data will greatly support forecasters in their predictions.
The constellation was planned to consist of six satellites
In the long run, the improved understanding of the formation and evolution of tropical cyclones gained from this project could contribute to enhancing climate models.
Originally, the constellation was planned to consist of six satellites. However, two of them were lost in a malfunction of a US Astra rocket during its launch last year. Despite this setback, the current four-satellite constellation remains a valuable asset for monitoring and studying these powerful storms.
Scientists warn that hurricanes and typhoons are growing stronger due to the warming of the ocean surface. In 2022, Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc in Florida, causing dozens of fatalities and over $100 billion in damages. It stood as the costliest weather disaster worldwide that year.
