NCM investigates the use of drones in automated cloud seeding decisions

The National Meteorological Center (NCM) conducted a research activity in Colorado, USA through the UAE Precipitation Enhancement Science Research Program (UAEREP) to investigate the possibility of using autonomous drone systems to collect cloud microphysical measurements and provide automated cloud seeding decision making.

The three-week field event aims to demonstrate the autonomous observation and seeding capabilities of drones through a series of increasingly complex Intensive Observation Periods (IOPs).

Professor Eric Frew from the University of Colorado at Boulder and the project’s 3^roadThe cycle winners successfully deployed and validated miniaturized instrument kits for in-situ cloud microphysical measurement and demonstrated their use for seeding.

Based on model simulation, radar data and in-situ measurements, the team carried out autonomous directional observation and delivery algorithms to provide real-time guidance for UAVs. The use of autonomous drones for seeding conditions in convective clouds was evaluated throughout the submitted activity.

The activity was carried out using three drones: two drones equipped with miniaturized instruments for in-situ cloud surveys, and one drone to carry and disperse seeding materials. After the successful demonstration, the drone will be handed over to NCM for further trials in the UAE to evaluate the feasibility of integrating the technology into operational cloud seeding activities.

The event represents one of the first technical demonstrations of drones dedicated to seeding operations, while being guided by real-time measurements and algorithms based on autonomous decision-making. This technology has proven its potential to improve the overall efficiency of planting operations.

His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Director-General of NCM and Chairman of the Second Regional Association (Asia) of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), said: “Eric Frew’s research activities mark an important technological demonstration that can fundamentally change the way we will in the future. Using autonomous drone systems for precipitation enhancement operations. The deployment of such advanced technologies will enable our scientists to better understand the cloud formation process in the UAE and other arid and semi-arid regions, and carry out more reliable and efficient precipitation enhancement Operations. This will greatly contribute to the achievement of NCM’s goal of establishing new local and regional capabilities in meteorology and water resources management.”

Alya Al Mazroui, Head of the UAE Precipitation Enhancement Science Research Program (UAEREP), said: “This testing event is part of the program’s ongoing efforts to use the research results of the award-winning project to improve our cloud seeding. The method is based on cloud micro With more accurate observation of physical measurements and targeting of suitable clouds for seeding, autonomous technology can significantly improve our ability to successfully carry out precipitation enhancement operations. By using new technological advances, the plan is to improve the effectiveness of cloud seeding and achieve global water security Plays a key role.”