Currently: 77°F
A Millersville University student organization successfully launched two weather balloons on March 31 outside the Weather Center. The launches were a part of Project TILTTING, which stands for Thermodynamic Investigation into LCL Thresholds during Tornadogenesis and its Influence in the Northeast and Great Plains.
Led by meteorology student Gabe Keller, the team conducted launches at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to track atmospheric changes ahead of an impending severe thunderstorm.
Each balloon carried a radiosonde, a specialized data collection instrument, that collects real-time data about pressure, temperature, humidity, wind speed and wind direction as it ascends. Using the collected data, student meteorologists analyze current weather conditions and predict future forecasting models.
In the event of severe weather, the information can be requested by the National Weather Service.
Project TILTTING is a student-led initiative that provides Meteorology students hands-on experience by launching weather balloons, chasing storms, and developing severe weather research. “It is both a learning experience and a contribution to the scientific field,” states project member and meteorology student Anthony Haberman.
Project TILTTING is currently fundraising and planning an upcoming research project in the Great Plains aiming to deepen understanding of tornado development in the Northeast.
For more information about Project TILTTING and how to support their future endeavors, click here.
