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Blurring the line between rain and snow: the limits of meteorological classification

Researchers evaluate traditional precipitation phase partitioning methods and machine learning models, revealing near-freezing temperatures create inherent limitations in distinguishing between rain and snow. Accurate identification is critical for weather forecasting, hydrologic modeling, and climate research.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 26, 2025

Rainfall and drought linked to childhood growth outcomes in Uganda

Environmental factors such as rainfall and water availability before and during pregnancy predict future growth outcomes of children in Uganda. The study found that children born to mothers living in areas with high rainfall had a lower risk of malnutrition, while those born to mothers experiencing drought had a higher risk.

SourcePenn State·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 19, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

NASA taps UTA to shape future of autonomous aviation

The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) has been awarded a $1 million NASA grant to develop safety systems for drones and unmanned flying vehicles. The project aims to create an adaptive safety assurance architecture through extensive simulations and experimental testing, making future advanced air mobility vehicles smarter and safer.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateMar 13, 2025

AMS Science Preview: Data deserts, energy costs, malaria prediction

Climate change drives large increases in electricity demand and costs in Texas due to extreme temperatures. Meanwhile, atmospheric rivers become more frequent, larger, and moister globally. Diagnostic studies also predict malaria outbreaks with five-month lead time using sea-surface temperature anomalies.

SourceAmerican Meteorological Society·DateMar 11, 2025

The US weather enterprise: A national treasure at risk

The US weather enterprise faces significant risks due to federal science funding cuts, which could lead to reduced weather forecasting accuracy and increased vulnerability to hazardous weather. The value of weather information to the US economy exceeds $100 billion annually.

SourceAmerican Meteorological Society·DateMar 3, 2025

Major changes to the Sahara Desert 8,000 years ago uncovered by Moroccan stalagmites

Researchers from the University of Oxford discovered that rainfall in the Sahara Desert increased between 8,700 and 4,300 years ago, coinciding with a rise in Neolithic archaeological sites. This finding highlights the importance of a favourable climate on early pastoralist societies, which relied on rainfall for their livestock.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 26, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

‘False’ springs, long summers mean uncertainty for NY grape growers

Grapevines rely on external signals to gain cold hardiness for winter and develop buds in the spring. Warmer autumns and false springs disrupt this process, making NY grape growers vulnerable to late frost damage. Planting diverse varieties is key to adapting to climate change.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·DateFeb 18, 2025

AMS Science Preview: Wind and wildfire, EF5s, “sitting ducks”

Research highlights the impact of wind on wildfire growth, with areas in the US Southeast vulnerable to extreme heat and precipitation events. Meanwhile, a study suggests the 'drought' of EF5 tornadoes may be due to stricter ratings rather than changes in tornadoes.

SourceAmerican Meteorological Society·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateFeb 4, 2025

How does the atmosphere affect ocean weather?

A new study by scientists at the University of Rochester suggests that atmospheric wind has a surprising impact on ocean eddies, which are circular currents of water about 100 kilometers wide. The research reveals that wind can both energize and dampen eddies, depending on their spin direction.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2025

Development and application of a tornado database for the Chinese mainland

A study presents an open-access tornado database for mainland China, revealing a spatial concentration of tornadoes in Jiangsu and Guangdong provinces. The data shows that tornadoes are most frequent in summer, peaking in July, with high-intensity tornadoes (EF2 and above) calculated for specific counties.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvances in Wind Engineering·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 27, 2025

Empowering numerical weather predictions with drones as meteorological tools

Researchers evaluate drones' potential for long-term daily collection of meteorological data, showing promising results and cost-effectiveness. The study demonstrates that drones can provide accurate measurements comparable to traditional methods, improving the accuracy of numerical weather predictions and disaster prevention.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2025
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Severe weather and major power outages increasingly coincide across the U.S.

A study found that nearly 75% of US counties experienced major power outages alongside severe weather events between 2018-2020. Severe precipitation and heat were most common triggers for outages, with regional patterns varying across the country.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Climate·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 22, 2025

Research on past hurricanes aims to reduce future risk

Researchers analyzed tropical storm-related precipitation to understand its impact on local water resources and provide insights into climate predictions. The study aims to help communities prepare for extreme storms and manage water resources before and after the storms.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 17, 2025

A change in the weather in the U.S. Corn Belt

A new study found that intensive farming and shallow groundwater in the US Corn Belt increase precipitation recycling by almost 30%, providing a significant boost to rainfall during the growing season. The research, published in PNAS, used advanced computer modeling techniques to quantify the impact of these factors on regional climate.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2025

AMS Science Preview: Tall hurricanes, snow and wildfire

Early online research reveals associations between snowmelt timing, wildfires in Alaska, and rapidly intensifying tropical cyclones. The impact of climate patterns on extreme weather events is a growing concern.

SourceAmerican Meteorological Society·JournalEarth Interactions·DateJan 3, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

What happens in the ocean when two cyclones collide

When two tropical cyclones collide in the Indian Ocean, they can intensify considerably, leading to extreme interactions between the ocean and atmosphere. The study found that effects occurred that have only been observed with much stronger cyclones, including a cooling effect of three degrees Celsius and upwelling of deep water masses.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalTellus A Dynamic Meteorology and Oceanography·TypeCase study·DateDec 10, 2024

LIST and UNHCR to launch early warning system for emergencies

The new system uses AI technology combined with Earth observation data to detect risks of events that might trigger forced displacement, delivering timely alerts ahead of emergencies. It will help humanitarian actors plan and respond more effectively, minimizing response times and avoiding duplication of efforts.

SourceLuxembourg Institute of Science and Technology·DateNov 14, 2024
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

A new piece in the grass pea puzzle - updated genome sequence published

A new chromosome-scale reference genome of grass pea has been published, improving on earlier draft assemblies and offering potential for climate-smart agriculture. The updated genome allows for improved breeding and gene editing to develop varieties with improved agronomic characteristics or low toxin content.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalScientific Data·DateOct 31, 2024

Ethical framework aims to counter risks of geoengineering research

A new framework for responsible decision-making and inclusive dialogue has been launched by the American Geophysical Union to address the risks of geoengineering research. The framework proposes five key principles to guide research, funding and policy proposals, including consideration of physical, environmental and social consequences.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 22, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Urban forests reduce heat-related mortality, study shows

A new study shows that urban forests within walkable distance from residential areas are crucial in reducing heat-related health risks. Researchers found that nearby forests have a pronounced impact on reducing mortality risks, particularly those within 1 kilometre of residential areas.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEnvironment International·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 12, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

High levels of ozone and grass pollen expected for Paris Olympics/Paralympics

The 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris are likely to experience high levels of ozone and grass pollen, potentially affecting athletes' health. Background air quality monitoring data suggests that PM2.5 levels are below the WHO recommended threshold, but NO2 levels exceed the limit at some stations

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJul 25, 2024

Physical activity improves early with customized text messages in patients with heart problems

Researchers found that personalized text messages effectively increased physical activity among patients after significant heart events, with Apple Watch users showing a 10% increase in step count. However, the benefits later tapered off as patients became accustomed to the messages.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCirculation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 24, 2024

Researchers create groundbreaking cotton quality model to aid farmers

MSU researchers developed a new cotton quality module as part of the GOSSYM application, simulating plant growth and yield. The tool can predict crop growth, yield, and fiber quality, providing valuable insights for farmers to maximize income and resiliency in the face of climate change.

SourceMississippi State University·JournalField Crops Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 12, 2024
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Invasive ants spread by hitchhiking on everyday vehicles

Researchers found that ants need three main things to succeed when hitchhiking: climbing ability, foraging/colonizing behaviors, and temperature tolerance. The study tracked the spread of invasive ants through non-commercial transport on personal vehicles, highlighting a significant threat to native species.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalEcological Entomology·DateJun 27, 2024

For many urban residents, it’s even hotter than their weather app says

Research from Duke University found that citizen science tools used in urban areas understate the problem of heat islands. The study suggests a statistical method to improve estimates of urban heat, highlighting the need for additional weather stations to better understand the issue.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

Public more confident connecting increasing heat, wildfires with climate change than other extreme weather events, study finds

A recent study by Oregon State University found that US adults are fairly confident in linking wildfires and heat to climate change, but less so for hurricanes, flooding, or tornadoes. The survey also revealed significant differences in responses based on politics, personal experience, and demographics.

SourceOregon State University·JournalClimatic Change·TypeSurvey·DateJun 13, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

AMS Science Preview: Sea-ice loss may accelerate; tornadoes and flying cars

Arctic sea ice is expected to lose mass in the coming decade due to dominant natural climate patterns. Exposure to extreme temperatures, particularly heat, may lead to adverse birth outcomes in China. Researchers also found that ocean warming intensifies typhoons, but moderation comes from atmospheric temperature and humidity changes.

SourceAmerican Meteorological Society·JournalJournal of Climate·DateMay 31, 2024

AMS Science Preview: “Outdoor days,” lightning, air pollution

A new study finds that extreme tropical cyclone rainfall is increasing across the continental US, while climate warming restricts 'outdoor days' for people living in developing countries. Additionally, air pollution increases mortality risks from heat, especially when combined with other factors like wildfires and reduced aerosols.

SourceAmerican Meteorological Society·JournalJournal of Climate·DateMar 21, 2024

Summer solstice triggers synchronized beech tree reproduction across Europe

A new study by the University of Liverpool and international partners found that the summer solstice acts as a celestial cue to synchronize beech tree reproduction across vast distances in Europe. This synchronization has significant consequences for ecosystems, including disruptions in food webs and wildlife populations.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Plants·DateMar 13, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Hazardous heat and humidity is widespread in US jails and prisons, and climate change is worsening conditions

Climate change is exacerbating dangerous humid heat conditions in US carceral facilities, with 44 states lacking universal air conditioning. Incarcerated people are disproportionately susceptible to heat-related illnesses, with preexisting health conditions increasing risk.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 5, 2024

Scientists uncover link between the ocean’s weather and global climate

A team of scientists has found evidence linking oceanic weather systems to climate on a global scale, revealing that these interactions require the mediation of the atmosphere. The study used mechanical analysis to understand energy transfer across different patterns in the ocean and atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 20, 2023

Giant sea salt aerosols play major role in Hawai‘i’s coastal clouds, rain

Researchers found that the coastline produces up to five times more giant sea salt aerosols than the open ocean, affecting cloud formation and rainfall around the Hawaiian Islands. The study's findings can improve numerical weather prediction of nearshore cloud formation and rainfall patterns.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·TypeObservational study·DateNov 27, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Novel framework for assessing the utilization efficiency of mobile power sources in the power grid

A new theoretical framework evaluates the utilization efficiency of mobile power sources in power grids, considering various failure scenarios and structural resilience. The study emphasizes deploying mobile power sources to improve grid survivability and rapid recovery capabilities during disasters.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Economy and Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 19, 2023

Green spaces can save lives, according to urban big data

Researchers found that green spaces alleviate extreme heat's negative impacts on human health, while densely packed buildings increase mortality risk. Urban design strategies incorporating different types of greenery are recommended to mitigate heatwave-associated mortality.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 5, 2023

Study links changes in global water cycle to higher temperatures

Researchers have reconstructed a global history of water over the past 2,000 years, showing that the global water cycle has changed during periods of higher and lower temperatures. The study found that when global temperature is higher, rain and other environmental waters become more isotopically heavy.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 2, 2023

Complex data becomes easier to interpret when transformed into music

A team of researchers at Tampere University and Eastern Washington University used weather records to validate the effectiveness of musical characteristics in enhancing data interpretation. The study found that musical sounds can be a powerful complement to traditional data visualization methods.

SourceTampere University·JournalFrontiers·DateOct 30, 2023

Miniaturized FSO breakthrough unlocks high-speed wireless communication anywhere

Researchers at Nanjing University have developed a miniaturized FSO system achieving an astonishing 9.16 Gbps bandwidth over 1 km link using readily available commercial fiber transceiver modules. The system enables automatic tracking and precision acquisition, eliminating the need for optical amplification.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateOct 17, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Long-lasting La Niña events more common over past century

A new study found that multiyear La Niña events have become more common over the last 100 years, with warming in the western Pacific Ocean being a key factor. The study suggests that long-lasting La Niñas will exacerbate adverse impacts on communities around the globe.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 20, 2023

New research brings greater understanding of Asian winter monsoon

Scientists have discovered a new technique to analyze stalagmites for insights into seasonal rainfall patterns in Southeast Asia over thousands of years. The study reveals potential to refine climate models' predictions on winter monsoon rainfall, which can inform policies to mitigate intense rainfall impacts.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 20, 2023

Stevens researchers take aim at weather forecasters’ biggest blindspot

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed more accurate nowcasting algorithms to predict short-term weather forecasts. The study found that probabilistic models are highly accurate in predicting both long- and short-term rainfall events, while deterministic models are better suited for extremely short-term projections.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Modelling & Software·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Scientists warn about decoupling warming trend when detecting marine heat waves

A new study reveals that analyzing surface temperature anomalies without correcting for long-term warming trends can lead to biased detection and characterization of marine heat waves. By removing the trend from data, researchers can distinguish between transient changes and actual shifts in heat wave properties.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 3, 2023