The Mount Washington Observatory’s wind speed equipment has been installed on Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas. This installation aims to monitor weather conditions and improve forecasts in a region experiencing significant drought. The project, undertaken by a team of scientists and climbers, also serves to enhance understanding of the water cycle in the central Andes.
The Mount Washington Observatory has developed wind speed monitoring equipment that is now operational on Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas. In February, a dedicated team of scientists and climbers succeeded in installing this advanced weather tracking device, which originated at the Observatory, on the summit of Aconcagua.
Keith Garrett, the technology director at the observatory, explained that the crucial sensor was first designed to endure extreme conditions for one year on Mount Everest before being modified for use in Argentina. The equipment has a cylindrical shape and is specifically designed to function efficiently in harsh, icy environments.
Garrett emphasized the importance of minimizing the equipment’s components to facilitate successful deployment in remote locations lacking power sources. He also noted that Mount Washington serves as an excellent training ground for such extreme endeavors, with expedition leaders practicing on Mount Washington before venturing to Everest.
Scientific data collected from Aconcagua will enhance weather forecasts and contribute to a deeper understanding of the water cycle in the Andean region, particularly vital given the ongoing mega-drought affecting the area since 2010. According to Baker Perry, the expedition leader and a climatologist, this innovative project will significantly assist researchers and policymakers in managing water resources as glacial and snowpack levels continue to drop.
The newly installed weather station will function within a larger network of monitoring stations across the Argentinian Andes, aimed at addressing critical issues surrounding water availability and climate change.
In summary, the successful installation of advanced weather monitoring equipment from the Mount Washington Observatory on Mount Aconcagua marks a significant scientific achievement. This initiative aims to improve weather forecasts and deepen understanding of the crucial water cycle in the Andes, particularly in light of the ongoing drought conditions. Coupled with the support of a broader network of stations, this project underscores the collaborative efforts necessary to address pressing environmental challenges.
Original Source: www.nhpr.org
