Sailing drone video from inside cat 4 hurricane

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SUMMARY

The Saildrone Explorer SD 1045 successfully navigated Hurricane Sam, capturing unprecedented video footage and critical scientific data amidst 50-foot waves and winds exceeding 120 mph. This operation is part of a NOAA project utilizing surface drones to enhance hurricane research. The Explorer model, measuring 23 feet, features a specialized hurricane sail designed for extreme conditions, distinguishing it from standard models. This innovative approach provides new insights into the dynamics of powerful storms.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of drone technology and its applications in meteorology
  • Familiarity with NOAA's hurricane research initiatives
  • Knowledge of oceanographic data collection methods
  • Awareness of the Saildrone Explorer specifications and capabilities
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  • Research the specifications and capabilities of the Saildrone Explorer models
  • Explore NOAA's ongoing hurricane research projects and methodologies
  • Learn about the impact of drones on environmental monitoring and data collection
  • Investigate advancements in drone technology for extreme weather conditions
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This discussion is beneficial for meteorologists, oceanographers, drone technology enthusiasts, and researchers focused on hurricane dynamics and environmental monitoring.

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https://www.saildrone.com/press-release/ocean-drone-captures-video-inside-category-4-hurricane

The Saildrone Explorer SD 1045 was directed into the midst of Hurricane Sam, which is currently on a path that fortunately will miss the US East Coast. SD 1045 is battling 50-foot waves and winds of over 120 mph to collect critical scientific data and, in the process, is giving us a completely new view of one of Earth’s most destructive forces.
 
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Saildrone Inc. makes three models the one used by NOAA is the Explorer the smallest model at 23 feet long. It has a special hurricane sail which is substantially shorter than the standard sail.

link to the models' spec site