Ocean robot transmits real time weather data through Hurricane Sandy
Reporting a plunge in barometric pressure of over 54.3 mbars to a low of 946 mbars as Sandy neared landfall.
SUNNYVALE, CA - October 31, 2012 - Liquid Robotics®, an ocean data service provider and
of their Wave Gliders named Mercury battled through Hurricane Sandy and successfully piloted
through winds up to 70 knots, all the while transmitting weather data in real time. One hundred
miles due east of Toms River, New Jersey, the weather sensors on the Wave Glider gathered
dramatic data from the ocean surface, reporting a plunge in barometric pressure of over 54.3
mbars to a low of 946 mbars as Sandy neared landfall.
"Mercury now joins the fleet of other Wave Gliders that have come through Category I
hurricanes to successfully fulfill their missions," said Dr. Edward Lu, chief of innovative
applications for Liquid Robotics. "This is a testament to our robust and reliable technology and
proof of its readiness for severe weather data collection."
Prior to Hurricane Sandy, scientists from Liquid Robotics, Sonardyne, Rutgers University and
the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS®) (MARACOOS)
deployed the Wave Glider and two Sonardyne undersea nodes as part of an extensive ocean
observing technology demonstration project. This collaborative project demonstrates the use
and cost effectiveness of new subsea and surface technology for advanced ocean
measurement and enhanced tsunamis detection.
"In the midst of this epic disaster, Liquid Robotics wishes to express our sympathies for those
impacted by Hurricane Sandy," said Bill Vass, CEO of Liquid Robotics. "We are working closely
with scientists around the world to use the Wave Glider technology for better hurricane, typhoon
and tsunami prediction so we can help reduce the risk to human life and property."
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