A NASA documentary which explores the different methods of meteorological investigation available at time of filming. The programme focusses on the following concepts: weather balloons and research balloons, combined with telemetry, for meteorogical analysis [including spin-testing of a meteorological satellite]; the launch of weather satellites; animation to illustrate atmospheric parameters; thermistors and ground-receiving stations; Arcas rocket used to carry parachute thermistor payload; meteorological analysis using the DOPAP [Doppler's Philosophy and Position] method of grenade explosion; a passive sphere, released by a low-cost rocket and tracked on its descent; the sodium vapour technique, where sodium is ejected at a pre-determined altitude and launched by booster into the lower ionosphere; sodium vapour energised by the Sun's rays, filmed and analysed; other methods - chaff dispersal, active falling spheres, the use of radioactive isotopes; a Pakistani launch of a sounding rocket.
Not available