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Contemplating excess wind

A new study in the International Journal of Exergy provides a formula to calculate wind turbine performance and optimize energy production. The formula offers a theoretical boost of 20% efficiency at varying wind speeds, reducing wasted energy by 80%.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Exergy·DateJun 16, 2009

Tilting at wind farms

Researchers develop a novel control method to mitigate wind speed variations by leveraging rotor inertia as energy storage. This approach reduces the need for external energy storage facilities, improving overall wind farm efficiency.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Power Electronics·DateJan 7, 2009

Storn winds blow in Jupiter's Little Red Spot

A team of scientists from Johns Hopkins University used data from NASA's New Horizons spacecraft and multiple telescopes to observe the high winds in Jupiter's Little Red Spot. The winds have increased substantially over previous storms, with maximum speeds reaching 384 miles per hour, surpassing Category 5 storm thresholds.

High-flying moths don't just go with the flow

Scientists have found that migratory moths use various strategies to control their flight direction and speed, including selecting favorable wind directions and compensating for wind drift. These findings provide the first conclusive evidence for a compass mechanism in nocturnal insect migration.

Wind power explored off California's coast

A Stanford University study examines California's coast for offshore wind energy potential, estimating that a Northern California site could supply 5% of the state's electricity. However, high water depths and varying wind speeds make it challenging to harness wind power off the coast.

Is there a pilot in the insect?

Researchers have discovered a reflex mechanism in insects that allows them to maintain constant speed and altitude, even in strong headwinds. By controlling lift force using the optic flow regulator, insects can fly safely without measuring their speed or altitude.

SourceCNRS·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 13, 2007

Aerosol pollution slows down winds and reduces rainfall

A study by Stanford University researchers found that aerosol particles slow down winds, reducing the availability of clean energy from wind power and leading to decreased precipitation. This can result in droughts and reduced water supplies, with potential impacts on global food security and energy systems.

SourceStanford University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 22, 2007

Ocean spray lubricates hurricane winds

A new study reveals that ocean spray plays a crucial role in lubricating the swirling winds of hurricanes and cyclones. The researchers found that large water droplets kicked up by rough seas can inhibit turbulence, allowing winds to build to speeds approaching 200 miles per hour.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 25, 2005

Better analyses of wind, damage models would help insurers anticipate hurricane costs

Researchers analyzed 324 combinations of public and private wind speed and damage models, finding vastly different results due to varying inputs. Creating a centralized database of wind speeds and requiring insurance companies to divulge more information about damage claims could help improve the accuracy of these models.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateOct 20, 2004