Researchers are collecting data from the lowest few thousand feet of the atmosphere, known as the boundary layer, to better understand its interactions with the surface. The Cooperative Atmosphere-Surface Exchange Study (CASES) aims to improve weather forecasting by measuring heating and evaporation rates at the surface.
The FAA and NCAR are working together to develop a new turbulence detection and warning system for the Juneau Airport, which could potentially prevent crashes and injuries. The system uses real-time data from sensors and computer monitors in the control tower to display information on choppy winds and turbulence.
Scientists argue that computer models and satellites are useful tools, but only when their limitations are well understood. They found that most of the difference between MSU and surface trends could be explained by two significant drops in MSU data for 1981 and 1991.
Researchers from NCAR and NOAA are studying terrain-induced turbulence at Colorado Springs airport to reduce mountain flying risks. The goal is to develop a real-time turbulence detection and warning system, similar to one recently developed for Hong Kong's Chek Lap Kok Airport.
Scientists at NCAR are testing new forecasting methods to predict treacherous icing zones and improve pilot safety. The experiment uses weather observations, numerical models, and aircraft measurements to target large-droplet icing conditions, providing escape routes for pilots.
Scientists from 11 countries investigate powerful winter storms in the North Atlantic to better forecast their impact on western Europe and the US West Coast. By studying precursors and cyclones, FASTEX aims to enhance computerized forecasts.
The FAA is testing a new deicing system that provides half-hour forecasts to aid in deicing decisions, potentially reducing cancellations and costs. The system uses data from surface weather stations, snow-weighing gauges, and Doppler radars to provide accurate predictions of snowfall accumulation.
Using NCAR computer models of climate and vegetation, Benjamin Felzer found which plant types ancestors would have walked among during the last glacial maximum. The model reveals a global picture of vegetation 21,000 years ago, with significant changes in central Asia and Africa.
A team of scientists from the US, France, Italy, CAR, and Congo conduct a rare study of the African atmosphere, exploring biomass burning, rainforest-savanna boundaries, and global air chemistry. The EXPRESSO project collects chemical data to understand how vegetation and fires interact with the atmosphere.
The NCAR research program is testing a new cloud-seeding technique using pyrotechnic flares to enhance rainfall in drought-stricken Coahuila, Mexico. The technique has shown promising results in South Africa and Arizona, but its effectiveness remains uncertain.
Researchers at NCAR have developed new computer models to analyze storm development and forecast uncertainty. The auto-nowcaster tool, which spots incipient storms and predicts their development up to a half-hour in advance, will be tested this summer.