SkyCast

Wind and Thermodynamic Profiling System for Airports

The SkyCast system integrates data from the RWP, MPR, Sodar, and surface sensor provides the ability to constantly monitor low-level wind field characteristics along with any associated wind shear, low-level jets, headwinds, tailwinds, and crosswinds. These parameters are critical to pilot weather situational awareness and gauging aircraft performance. Wind retrievals are processed through wind shear algorithms that derive shear magnitude and depth characteristics. Decision makers (like air traffic control and pilots) use these alerts to make informed decisions about takeoff and landing operations when wind shear conditions exist.

The SkyCast system integrates data from the wind profiler, radiometer, Sodar, and surface sensor and provides the ability to constantly monitor low-level wind field characteristics along with any associated wind shear, low-level jets, headwinds, tailwinds, and crosswinds. These parameters are critical to pilot weather situational awareness and gauging aircraft performance. Wind retrievals are processed through wind shear algorithms that derive shear magnitude and depth characteristics. Decision makers (like air traffic control and pilots) use these alerts to make informed decisions about takeoff and landing operations when wind shear conditions exist.

Automated, Real-Time Atmospheric Monitoring

• SkyCast automatically detects and alerts for hazardous aviation conditions including: Wind Shear, Inversions, Low-Level Jets, Icing, and Fog.
• SkyCast instrumentation includes a Radar Wind Profiler,  Microwave Profiling Radiometer,  SoDAR, and Automated (surface) Weather Station to produce vertical profiles of wind speed and direction, and thermodynamics Algorithms integrate and process instrumentation data and provide automated alerts through forecaster displays.
• Automated alerts can be sent to ATC display if determined appropriate by forecaster.

All data and products are updated in real-time every 5 minutes.

SkyCast provides real-time, critical weather information to:

• Improve airport safety in the air and on the ground.
• Reduce the impact and duration of weather delays.
• Lower operational costs.
• Improve customer satisfaction and comfort.

Current/Upcoming Airport Installations