NOAA tests new uncrewed aircraft for hurricane research
Uncrewed systems are a rapidly emerging tool for NOAA in hurricane research and forecasting as they allow researchers to gather data from otherwise inaccessible regions of the storm. While some uncrewed system deployments in hurricanes have already been shown to improve hurricane intensity forecasts, others still require further research and development. Prior to hurricane season, NOAA tests new and updated emerging technologies in non-storm environments, or “clear air,” to consider incorporating them into the hurricane reconnaissance program.

