QuikSCAT, the satellite which measures wind speeds and direction, among other things, is dying according to many in the weather and space industry.
The satellite, which was built in then-record time of 12 months, was only supposed to last a few years at most, has been in operation now since June, 1999.
QuikSCAT is the only United States operated satellite that measures surface winds over open ocean.
Among numerous issues, QuikSCAT is suffering from worn bearings due to friction which slows the measuring antenna causing potentially faulty weather data.
Debate, however, seems to be focused more on the replacement instrument for QuikSCAT. Some wish to update the satellite with a more long-term, but equally productive satellite. Others feel the costs necessary are not supportive of another QuickSCAT (II) and feel the satellite should be capable of more detailed and varied operations.
This debate is the failure to have QuikSCAT’s successor built.
In addition, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) have been on record as stating the loss of QuikSCAT would not significantly affect the quality of weather forecasts, in particular, of hurricanes.
Representatives Ron Klein (FL) and Charlie Melancon (LA) have introduced the Hurricane Satellite Modernization Act which would effectively secure $3 billion USD for the launch and operation of next-generation weather satellites. This financing would covers the years 2010 to 2027. Many are arguing the financials are too much for such a long period of time.
The Bill would also authorize QuikSCAT’s replacement, XOVMM (Extended Ocean Vector Winds Mission).
The House Committee on Science and Technology is currently reviewing the Bill.
In May, 2007, former National Hurricane Center Director Bill Proenza claimed that QuikSCAT was failing and such failure would reduce the accuracy of hurricane forecasts by as much as 16%. However, those statements would come under fire. One of those who lambasted Dr. Proenza’s statements were Dr. Jeff Masters of Weather Underground. Dr. Masters is quoted as saying that the loss of the satellite would only have a minor effect.
Now, however, Dr. Masters has made it a mission of trying to replace QuikSCAT. Writing in March, 2009 and, most recently, Saturday, Dr. Masters is trying to make the case to replace QuikSCAT urgently, as he states at the very earliest such a replacement would come would be 2015. He is asking readers to contact their local Senators to vote down the Commerce State Justice Appropriations Act scheduled for vote tomorrow. The Act would reduce NOAA’s budget by $172 million USD to fund another criminal program.
I’m a bit confused:
- QuikSCAT was discredited as an efficient, cost-worthy satellite for hurricane and weather forecasting two years ago.
- Now, an effort is being made to replace QuikSCAT and replace the satellite immediately as soon as possible.
- No one in the weather industry can agree on QuikSCAT’s importance and, seemingly, some are flip-flopping over just how important.
How in the hell can you ask a Senator to vote for or against any type of Act when those who would benefit from the Act can’t even make up their own damn minds?
Do you think we should spend $3 billion towards a new generation of weather satellites? Should NOAA’s budget should be cut in the middle of an active cycle of hurricane acivity?
