The MetSprite WxUAS—Recent Technological Advancements and Results from the Wessex Convection 2023 Field Campaign

As the observational gap in the vertical structure of the planetary boundary layer (PBL) persists, meteorological UAS (wxUAS) like the MetSprite are demonstrating capabilities to fill this gap in a cost-effective manner. Designed for resilience in challenging weather conditions, the MetSprite wxUAS is equipped to undertake regular atmospheric profiles through and above the PBL, in a variety of climates.

Following a successful validation campaign at the KNMI Cabauw 200-metre tower in the Netherlands, where MetSprite showcased accuracy approaching that of radiosondes, it has been deployed in the ten-week WesCon-WOEST project, focusing on turbulence's role in convective initiation across southern England.

Key takeaways from the campaign include:

1. Versatility & Volume: Approximately 700 flights occurred, in diverse configurations, underscoring MetSprite's adaptability as a research measurement platform.
2. Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Achievements: MetSprite's flights reached 2 km AGL, offering a detailed look into the PBL structure at a 30-minute resolution.
3. Virtual Mast Mode: Leveraging this mode, MetSprite maintained a consistent altitude, replaced by a successive drone at the same elevation for the duration of Intensive Observation Periods (IOPs). An on-board 40 Hz sonic anemometer provided invaluable 3D wind insights and turbulence characteristics.
4. Multi-site Mode: Dual UAS operations synchronised at multiple sites enabled studies of surface layer evolution over the diurnal cycle in convective boundary layers for different land types (forest, arable)

The campaign was enriched by the overlap of meteorologists, technologists, and other experts, bringing in an interdisciplinary collaboration. Upholding strict safety standards and aviation regulations were paramount, especially for BVLOS flights. Furthermore, MetSprite's commitment to quick data dissemination was evident as the academic community received netCDF files on the same day of the flights, while an API enabled near-real-time data accessibility. Another notable benefit of the MetSprite operations was its minimal environmental impact, running on mobile battery storage charged from the grid to maintain a reduced carbon footprint.

In conclusion, the WesCon-WOEST field campaign demonstrates the influential role and potential of the MetSprite wxUAS to provide new perspectives for atmospheric observations and research. Looking forward, the significant progress in autonomy during the campaign, and developments like the MetSprite Dock, bode well for an era of enhanced efficiency and autonomous remote operations in atmospheric research.