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Dropsonde facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Dropsonde delivery system
Dropsonde delivery system on a NOAA P-3 Hurricane Hunters.

A dropsonde is a weather reconnaissance device created by the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), designed to be dropped from an aircraft at altitude to more accurately measure (and therefore track) tropical storm conditions as the device falls to the ground. The dropsonde contains a GPS receiver, along with pressure, temperature, and humidity (PTH) sensors to capture atmospheric profiles and thermodynamic data. It typically relays these data to a computer in the aircraft by radio transmission. The device's descent is usually slowed by a parachute, allowing for more readings to be taken before it reaches the water beneath.

Images for kids

  • Dropsonde

    A diagram of an NCAR GPS Dropsonde

  • Dropsonde U.S. Air Force

    Dropsonde (source US Air Force)

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