On April 13, 2015 the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School added a commercial helicopter (Airbus Helicopter H125) to its research fleet. The helicopter observation platform (HOP) is equipped with advanced technology for studying critical physical, chemical and biological processes near the Earth’s surface.
With the capability to hover just above the surface, HOP is ideal for conducting different types of remote sensing observations, such as airborne sea-surface measurements. Fully fueled and with both pilot and co-pilot on board, the HOP can carry a scientific payload of up to about 1,000 lbs internally (about 3,000 lbs externally) and fly for nearly 4 hours without refueling at an airspeed of 65 knots, which is ideal for in-situ observations.
The airborne research laboratory is a unique tool that will fill critical gaps in chemical and biological observations of the environment. Read more here.
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SECOORA funds Dr. Nick Shay (UM Rosenstiel School) to support four WERA radar arrays along the coast of Miami, Florida. High frequency (HF) radar systems measure the speed and direction of ocean surface currents in near real-time. Ocean surface currents are fundamental for spill response and search and rescue operations. UM Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science is a member of SECOORA. Become a member today!
Story adapted from University of Miami press release, “UM Rosenstiel School Unveils New Helicopter Observation Platform”
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