Storm Trackers Lose a Key Eye in the Sky
Hurricane season is back, but weather experts are facing a significant challenge. They are losing a crucial tool that helps them track and predict these powerful storms. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has decided to stop using data from a special satellite system called the Special Sensor Microwave Imager Sounder (SSMIS). This system is part of a group of satellites that orbit close to Earth and provide unique information about hurricanes.
The Importance of SSMIS
The SSMIS system is special because it uses microwaves to see through clouds. This allows meteorologists to understand what's happening inside a hurricane, not just what's on the surface. Other satellites can only show the cloud tops, which isn't as helpful, especially at night or over open water. The SSMIS data helps forecasters monitor hurricanes and identify their centers, which is vital for accurate predictions.
The Impact of Losing SSMIS Data
The loss of this data is a concern for many scientists. It accounts for nearly half of all microwave data used in forecasting. Without it, there's a risk that some hurricanes might be missed or their intensity underestimated. This could have serious consequences for the millions of people living in hurricane-prone areas.
The Future of Hurricane Forecasting
The SSMIS system is part of a larger program called the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP), which is operated by NOAA and the U.S. Space Force. While the satellites are still functional, the data will no longer be shared with NOAA for public use. This decision has raised concerns among scientists, who warn that it could negatively impact the accuracy of hurricane forecasts.
Despite the concerns, the Space Force has stated that the data will still be available to Department of Defense users. However, this doesn't address the needs of the broader weather community, which relies on this data to keep people safe. The loss of the SSMIS data is a significant setback for hurricane forecasting and highlights the importance of investing in reliable and accessible weather data.