NASA Detects Enormous Waves Triggered by Hurricane Helene
- AWE was launched in November 2023 and is stationed on the International Space Station.
- The technology detected atmospheric waves produced by Hurricane Helene as it made landfall.
- The finding emphasizes the importance of innovative technology in understanding severe weather patterns.
On September 26, 2023, as Hurricane Helene approached land, it generated significant atmospheric gravity waves in the Earth's upper atmosphere. This phenomenon was observed using a new NASA technology called the Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE), which was launched in November 2023. AWE is mounted on the exterior of the International Space Station and is specifically designed to monitor atmospheric gravity waves caused by various atmospheric disturbances, including hurricanes and thunderstorms. The detection of these waves is critical for enhancing the understanding of how severe weather events affect the atmosphere. It showcases the role of advanced space weather prediction technologies in providing valuable data about these powerful natural occurrences and their impacts on Earth.