Innovative Drone Research at the University of Oklahoma Enhances Tornado Prediction Techniques

Transforming Weather Prediction with Innovative Drones



The University of Oklahoma is at the forefront of a groundbreaking initiative that utilizes advanced drone technology to improve tornado forecasting and atmospheric data collection. On a notable day, May 5, 2023, during the Rolling Fork tornado, researchers from the Cooperative Institute for Severe and High Impact Weather (CIWRO) and NOAA's National Severe Storms Laboratory operated a fleet of small drones in harsh weather conditions. Their aim was to gather crucial atmospheric data and validate the potential of drones as effective tools in severe weather prediction.

As a part of a lineage of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS), these drones are redefining the landscape of atmospheric science. One standout model is the CopterSonde-3D, a weather-sensing drone designed by Ph.D. candidate Tony Segales. This patented UAS has been engineered to collect and stabilize weather data by utilizing an innovative front scoop design that enhances sensor accuracy. This compensation for heat disturbances around the drone ensures a clearer understanding of real-time atmospheric conditions. Segales explains the philosophy behind the CopterSonde, saying, "We designed the CopterSonde to essentially be a weathervane. It points into the wind, allowing air to flow through the intake and across the sensors."

The meticulous engineering has resulted in an effective platform capable of flying in various conditions. Segales and his graduate team oversee the design, management, and real-world testing of these drones, collecting feedback to continually refine the system. Over the past couple of years, the CopterSonde-3D underwent extensive flight testing—over 1,700 flights across diverse environments like the challenging storm conditions of the southeastern USA and high-altitude regions in Colorado.

The extensive flight tests are not just for validation; they provide meteorologists with vital data. This data becomes instrumental in filling significant gaps in our knowledge about the lower atmosphere, which can change rapidly yet is crucial to our understanding of high-impact weather events. Dr. Tyler Bell, a meteorologist and co-inventor of the CopterSonde-3D patent, highlights the importance of this research: "Typically, we get weather balloon launches twice daily, but the atmosphere can shift dramatically in between these launches. Our UAS can capture this information in real-time, leading to more accurate predictions."

The primary goal of the CopterSonde-3D is to complement existing atmospheric observations and address long-standing data deficiencies. Its capabilities extend into realms previously deemed hazardous, allowing data collection during severe weather events where traditional methods would be impossible or dangerous. As the program evolves, the team envisions a network of CopterSondes operating autonomously across a 3D Mesonet system, enabling targeted data collection that aligns with forecasters' immediate needs.

The collaboration between CIWRO's engineers and NSSL is pivotal to ensuring these drones can perform in extreme conditions. Segales explains, "Engineering a drone that can withstand and operate in intense storms poses significant challenges. We aim to measure their limits to understand how much they can endure."

These partnerships exemplify the fruitful collaboration between academia and governmental research, fostering a vibrant environment where innovative ideas can materialize into life-saving tools for communities.

One project cited by Bell illustrates the significant potential of this research: a central Oklahoma winter weather event in 2019 revealed rapid precipitation changes among sleet, ice, rain, and freezing rain. This data is crucial for enhancing forecast accuracy, where even a slight temperature variation can dramatically alter conditions. Bell envisions a future where fleets of specifically tailored CopterSondes can respond to various extreme weather situations, thereby further enhancing our capacity to predict and respond to severe weather.

With a pending patent for another variant of the CopterSonde and continuous advancements in drone technologies, the University of Oklahoma is poised to lead in the future of weather observation and safety through collaborative efforts between academia and federal research institutions.

The University of Oklahoma, established in 1890, remains dedicated to addressing the educational, cultural, and health care needs of the state and nation, making incredible strides in research and innovation.

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