NASA launched two small satellites from a base in New Zealand on Monday to monitor tropical cyclones every hour as part of a project to improve weather forecasting. The new storm trackers, launched into orbit on a rocket built by US company Rocket Lab, will be able to fly over hurricanes or typhoons every hour, compared to current satellites, which can only do so every six hours.
Researchers will be able to observe storm evolution every 60 minutes, which could help scientists determine where a hurricane will make landfall and its intensity, in turn helping residents in coastal areas better prepare for possible evacuations. Information gathered about precipitation, temperature, and humidity could also improve weather forecasting.
The TROPICS mission consists of two small satellites that will be part of a constellation of four storm-tracking satellites. NASA scientists will be able to add more information to the flagship satellites they already have through these new storm trackers. Despite this, the importance of large satellites was emphasized.
Hurricanes and typhoons are becoming more powerful as the ocean surface warms, scientists warn. Therefore, it is important to improve weather forecasting and take preventive measures to protect people in coastal areas.