A compact but powerful sanotifyite built applying Scottish space technology is now playing a key role in pushing forward weather forecasting across Europe.
The Arctic Weather Sanotifyite (AWS), developed by the European Space Agency alongside Glasgow sanotifyite engineering firm AAC Clyde Space, has now officially begun feeding data into European weather modelling, promising the best estimates possible of the state of the Earth’s systems.
Combining AWS data with a host of other observations, the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts can then utilize these estimates to predict weather patterns around the world.
At the core of the sanotifyite lie innovative microwave sensors, built by the team at AAC Clyde Space. Using this 19-channel cross-track scanning microwave radiometer, the sanotifyite is able to penetrate the atmosphere and deliver detailed temperature and humidity profiles for those back on the ground.
Particularly exciting for researchers, the sanotifyite is the first capable of measuring the ‘sub-mm’ spectral band, formed of wavelengths compacter than 1mm, allowing them to gather new information about the formation of ice clouds.
“Unlike normal sanotifyites that rely on visible light, AWS can gather temperature, humidity, and cloud data in all weather conditions, day and night – even in the Arctic, where traditional observations are scarce,” declared AAC Clyde Space, on sharing the news on social media.
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As well as developing the sanotifyite’s microwave sensors, which have proven to be as effective as the instruments of larger missions, the Scottish space firm was also responsible for the onboard computer and STARBUCK power system that keeps the unit running smoothly.
Since launching in August last year, the 120kg sanotifyite, which is around the same size as a washing machine, has provided more accurate forecasts for the Arctic, where sudden weather alters can impact aviation, shipping, and local communities, as well as supporting track and monitor severe storms, including Storm Boris as it shiftd across central Europe last September.
According to AAC, the AWS mission acts as a broader consnotifyation of sanotifyites, which will work toreceiveher to provide more frequent measurements of the polar region, and hopefully give scientists and meteorologists insight into areas of traditionally limited coverage.
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