{"id":723,"date":"2025-07-10T12:50:53","date_gmt":"2025-07-10T17:50:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/?page_id=723"},"modified":"2025-07-11T09:19:06","modified_gmt":"2025-07-11T14:19:06","slug":"why-uas","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/why-uas\/","title":{"rendered":"Why UAS?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>America&#8217;s Weather Advantage: Billions at Stake<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Weather-related disasters cost the U.S. economy billions annually across aviation, agriculture, energy, and emergency response sectors. NSSL&#8217;s uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) research is helping position America to lead the global weather technology market while protecting lives and economic interests through two breakthrough capabilities: <strong>weather-sensing UAS and survey UAS<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>UAS technology is transforming weather observation and disaster response. NSSL research proves these systems deliver scientific, economic, and societal returns while maintaining America&#8217;s competitive edge in critical weather technology. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"#whywxuas\">Weather-Sensing UAS: Filling the Data Gap<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditional weather stations and satellites leave a critical data gap in the lower atmosphere\u2014exactly where most impactful weather develops. This blind spot costs lives and billions in economic losses both from disasters and lost opportunity for efficiency.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"#whysurvey\">Survey UAS: Seeing What Eyes Can&#8217;t <\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditional damage assessment methods are slow, expensive, and often put personnel at risk. Collection of information that is representative of the undisturbed impacts from a severe event depends on rapid deployment prior to intervention or clean-up efforts. UAS offer effective tools for collecting these data.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-noaa-blue-1-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-178e24a1ca9b8ca06cc14197c85175f4\"><strong>Game Changing Technology<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile is-image-fill-element\" style=\"grid-template-columns:52% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/06\/Picture6.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-583 size-full\" style=\"object-position:27% 55%\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/06\/Picture6.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/06\/Picture6-900x506.jpg 900w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/06\/Picture6-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/06\/Picture6-600x338.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, (max-width: 1200px) 60vw, 720px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>CopterSonde: Proven Innovation<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>3,000+ successful research flights in extreme conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Delivers high-resolution profiles of pressure, temperature, humidity, and wind<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Licensed and commercialized within the U.S. market<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fills critical data gaps where traditional observing methods often fail<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Next-Gen Platforms: PRODIGEE and LAAIRS Development<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Through projects supported by NOAA&#8217;s OMAO UxSOC, NSSL is collaborating with OU-CIWRO to advance the CopterSonde technology to meet NOAA and NSSL mission requirements. The recent Progressive Research and Optimization of a Durable and Independent Generation of Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (PRODIGEE) and ongoing Laboratory for Advanced Atmospheric Investigation using Robotic Sondes (LAAIRS) projects are developing the UAS platform required to collect the data when it is needed and where it is needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:auto 34%\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hurricane-force winds (74+ mph)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>10,000-foot flight ceiling<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) capabilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Automated operations (landing, charging, flight capability)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>U.S.-based supply chain through public-private partnerships<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1473\" height=\"1473\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/PXL_20240513_162707326.MP3-1-edited.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-726 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/PXL_20240513_162707326.MP3-1-edited.jpg 1473w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/PXL_20240513_162707326.MP3-1-edited-900x900.jpg 900w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/PXL_20240513_162707326.MP3-1-edited-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/PXL_20240513_162707326.MP3-1-edited-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/PXL_20240513_162707326.MP3-1-edited-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/PXL_20240513_162707326.MP3-1-edited-600x600.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, (max-width: 1200px) 60vw, 720px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-565bbae40126193444f081a6527ecbba\" style=\"color:#984c00\">Breakthrough Achievements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Potential Operational Impact: Protecting Lives and Property<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Research outcomes show that NSSL weather-sensing UAS data improved forecast accuracy for storm intensity and positioning, for the 2023 Rolling Fork, MS EF-4 tornado. This demonstrates the potential for immediate operational value beyond research applications; using UAS data in operational forecast models could directly support the tools that help NSSL partners make life-saving warnings and emergency decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69d968857e24b&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1085\" height=\"434\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on-async--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-async-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.11.31.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-727\" style=\"width:728px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.11.31.png 1085w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.11.31-900x360.png 900w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.11.31-600x240.png 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, (max-width: 1200px) 60vw, 720px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>International Leadership: Global Collaboration<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The 2024 SCALES project brought 15 institutions from across the country and around the world with their 45+ UAS platforms to Oklahoma. Partnering with the World Meteorological Organization, over 1,000 successful flights demonstrated demonstrated the feasibility of a 3D UAS network across the state and within an urban region (map below), showing America&#8217;s leadership in atmospheric research while establishing global standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Collaborations between NSSL, the academic sector, and private industry foster innovation and while delivering value to all stakeholders. These partnerships are demonstrated with <a href=\"https:\/\/techpartnerships.noaa.gov\/tpo_partnership\/international-met-systems\/\">NSSL and International Met Systems<\/a> working together to advance weather sensing UAS. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-contrast-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-e12ffb6e1a8855d6b7feac6f5a8c25b3\"><strong>Multi-Sector Benefits<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69d968857e63e&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1505\" height=\"1129\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on-async--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-async-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.14.18-edited.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-729\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.14.18-edited.png 1505w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.14.18-edited-900x675.png 900w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.14.18-edited-1200x900.png 1200w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.14.18-edited-600x450.png 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, (max-width: 1200px) 60vw, 720px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Weather forecasting and emergency response<\/strong>: enhanced prediction accuracy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aviation and transportation<\/strong>: reduced weather-related delays and accidents<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Agriculture and energy: <\/strong>improved planning and risk management<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Insurance and reinsurance<\/strong>: better risk assessment and pricing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color has-xxx-large-font-size wp-elements-869923b6c87d872697638bb3f363707b\" style=\"color:#00376f\"><strong>Revolutionary Capability<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:40% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"670\" height=\"927\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.32.57.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-731 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.32.57.png 670w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.32.57-650x900.png 650w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-12.32.57-434x600.png 434w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, (max-width: 1200px) 60vw, 720px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>UAS-Based Damage Assessment <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cost-effective, rapidly deployable option for post-storm surveys<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collects photos, video, and multispectral data at ultra-high resolution<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provides both visible info and quantitative measurements of impacts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Various platforms enable safe operations in post-disaster environments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>From Scientific Legacy to National Leadership<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In 1973, field imagery helped NSSL scientists understand Doppler radar data leading to the Tornado Vortex Signature revolutionizing warnings. Ted Fujita&#8217;s subsequent work set the foundation for severe weather assessment. Today&#8217;s UAS-based surveys echo this proven approach: combining cutting-edge observational data with field experiences to unlock new understanding. The difference is scale and precision\u2014NSSL\u2019s modern capabilities keep America ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-de22ba353602f2d2bae17d7a77f34ba3\" style=\"color:#984c00\">Historic Achievement<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Unprecedented Coupled Lidar Wind\u2013UAS-Based Impact Dataset<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69d968857edc1&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"691\" height=\"607\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on-async--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-async-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-09-at-20.09.48-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-733\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-09-at-20.09.48-1.png 691w, https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-09-at-20.09.48-1-600x527.png 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, (max-width: 1200px) 60vw, 720px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-essential-blocks-image-comparison  root-eb-image-comparison-oe0t8\"><div class=\"eb-parent-wrapper eb-parent-eb-image-comparison-oe0t8 \"><div class=\"eb-image-comparison-wrapper eb-image-comparison-oe0t8 eb-image-comparison-align-center eb-label-horizontal-center\" data-left-image=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/06\/Arnett_vis_small-scaled.png\" data-right-image=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/06\/Arnett_NDVI2.png\" data-vertical-mode=\"false\" data-hover=\"false\" data-show-label=\"true\" data-left-label=\"2.5-cm Visible\" data-right-label=\"NDVI\" data-slider-position=\"50\" data-line-width=\"4\" data-handle=\"false\"><div data-testid=\"container\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Left Image\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/06\/Arnett_vis_small-scaled.png\" data-testid=\"left-image\" \/><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Right Image\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/06\/Arnett_NDVI2.png\" data-testid=\"right-image\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The NSSL LIFT team deployed several field assets throughout the lifecycle of the May 18, 2025 Arnett, OK EF-3 tornado. Particularly unique, the NSSL Doppler lidar is believed to have collected the first ever direct lidar observations of a tornado. Survey UAS collected damage data over the same area of the tornado\u2019s path, creating an unprecedented dataset linking rapid, very near- surface tornadic wind observations to ground impacts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-45b8ef3c4e72195e1ba812d185ec4283\" style=\"color:#984c00\">Operational Impact<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Enhanced NWS ratings<\/strong>: UAS survey helped upgrade the Arnett tornado from preliminary EF-2 to EF-3<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reduced personnel risk<\/strong>: safe operations from safe position in potentially dangerous post- disaster environments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Data partnerships<\/strong>: Rapid deployments can collect data that hold value for emergency managers and disaster response; sharing data with partners can support response during critical periods<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69d968857f284&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"490\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on-async--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-async-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/04\/gif_option_3-ezgif.com-video-to-gif-converter.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-496\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-noaa-blue-1-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c9463825e0f34ba88cf0b3a9cd694c6d\"><strong>Strategic Advantages<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2713First-mover advantage<\/strong> in operational weather UAS technology<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2713Proven track record<\/strong> with immediate operational benefits<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2713Scalable solutions <\/strong>ready for national deployment<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2713Economic returns<\/strong> across multiple high-value sectors<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2713International leadership<\/strong> in critical atmospheric research<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-noaa-blue-1-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-e1217b91aec0f5a95725edaa2d08a4c7\"><strong>The Bottom Line<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>NSSL&#8217;s dual UAS capabilities\u2014weather-sensing and survey systems\u2014represent a strategic opportunity for America&#8217;s weather resilience and technological leadership. With billions in annual weather-related losses at stake and growing international competition, continued NSSL UAS research and development delivers measurable returns in lives saved, economic protection, and global competitiveness. <strong>America leads in weather technology. NSSL ensures we stay ahead.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>America&#8217;s Weather Advantage: Billions at Stake Weather-related disasters cost the U.S. economy billions annually across aviation, agriculture, energy, and emergency response sectors. NSSL&#8217;s uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) research is helping&#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/why-uas\/\" class=\"more-link\">Read more \u00bb<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":150,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-onecol.php","meta":{"_eb_attr":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-723","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/723","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/150"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=723"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/723\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":790,"href":"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/723\/revisions\/790"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.nssl.noaa.gov\/uas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=723"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}