A meteorological observation station featuring BeiDou navigation technology has been launched in Baingoin County, located in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. This station, established at a national meteorological observation site, is now the highest-altitude meteorological observation station in the world utilizing BeiDou technology, according to the China Meteorological Administration (CMA).
After a 65-minute ascent, the balloon relayed crucial weather data, such as temperature, humidity, air pressure, wind direction and wind speed, from altitudes ranging between 4,706 meters and 31,680 meters, according to Pema Dorje, an official from the local meteorological bureau.
Once operational, the station will improve meteorological observation by integrating ground and high-altitude data, enhancing weather monitoring accuracy within the region. It will better track severe conditions like thunderstorms and heavy rainfall on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, support precipitation studies, as well as strengthen disaster prevention efforts.
This initiative is part of China’s efforts to enhance meteorological observation capabilities. In July 2023, the CMA announced plans to transition from the current L-band sounding system to the BeiDou sounding system over the next three years, with all 131 stations nationwide completing the upgrade by 2025, addressing observation gaps and advancing meteorological services.
(With input from agencies)