5 Things That Changed Weather Forecasting Forever

The Evolution of Weather Services00:01:49

A look at the history of the US weather services, starting from the Signal Corps telegraphing weather data for ship safety to the push for a civilian agency following devastating blizzards and storms.

The Impact of Satellite Technology00:04:01

Discusses how the TIROS and Nimbus satellite programs, championed by Kennedy, provided global atmospheric data, offering researchers new views on jet streams and weather patterns.

Geostationary vs. Polar Orbiters00:06:25

Explains the difference between geostationary satellites, which act like cameras hovering over one spot for continuous imagery, and polar-orbiting satellites, which provide deep atmospheric measurements.

Microwave Sensing and Vertical Profiling00:08:45

Details how microwave sensors allow scientists to 'see' through clouds to determine vertical temperature structures, providing critical data for accurate forecasts.

Ensemble Forecasting and Social Science00:11:13

Highlights the contribution of ensemble modeling in extending forecast accuracy and emphasizes the current shift toward integrating social science to ensure warnings successfully drive public safety decisions.