NCAR Dropsonde NRD41 This proven weather reconnaissance device captures atmospheric profiles from aircraft flight level to surface, vastly improving weather observations. Aircraft-Specific Design Aircraft-Specific Design Image Dropsonde NRD41 is used for tropical cyclone reconnaissance and research, data acquisition over oceans as input for Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models, and to acquire data for meteorological research.Designed specifically for aircraft use, it descends through the atmosphere by parachute and measures the profiles of pressure, temperature, and relative humidity, and reads wind direction and speed data from the point of launch to the surface — to give you the data you need for accurate weather predictions and research.The NRD41 is based on the same Vaisala sensors and unique measurement technology as the RS41 radiosonde, and offers the same renowned stability, high quality, and safety features.Built by Vaisala under license from UCAR, the NRD41 dropsonde, aircraft data system hardware, and software are designed by the Earth Observing Laboratory of the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado, USA. Key Features Key Features Image The NRD41 is designed to obtain atmospheric profiling from aircraft from flight level to surface. The dropsonde is used to:Perform reconnaissance and research, data acquisition over oceans as input for Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models, and in various field campaignsMeasure pressure, temperature, and humidity values, and to read wind direction and speed data from the point of launch to the surfaceReceive, display, and store data for further use via an Airborne Vertical Atmospheric Profiling System (AVAPS) onboard the aircraft Receiving System Receiving System Onboard the aircraft, the NRD41 Airborne Vertical Atmospheric Profiling System (AVAPS), available from NCAR, allows you to receive, display, and store meteorological data for further use.In-situ data is collected from the sensors and transmitted back in real time to an onboard aircraft data system via radio link. Resources Datasheet NCAR Dropsonde NRD41 Explore how this instrument designed for measuring atmospheric profiles from aircraft provides accurate and critical meteorological data. Download PDF Infographic Into the eye of the storm - Season 2020 Infographic Discover how dropsonde technology aids hurricane hunters. Download PDF Blogs BLOG Unusual calm before the storms Looking back at the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season. READ MORE BLOG More is the norm: What’s in store for the Atlantic hurricane season Check out what’s in store for the Atlantic hurricane season of 2022 and how dropsondes help hurricane hunters. READ MORE BLOG Discover more about hurricanes to prepare for them better Read how the 2021 hurricane season got off to a record start. READ MORE BLOG The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season swirls on Take a look at the 2020 hurricane season. READ MORE BLOG Vaisala Manufactured Dropsondes get an early 2020 season workout Discover how the US Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters used Vaisala’s sensor technology to investigate an area of disturbed weather near The Bahamas. READ MORE Extend Your Atmospheric Profiling Capabilities We’ll show you how to make targeted observations in support of your weather forecasting and atmospheric research, and how to obtain impressive results. CONTACT US Meteorology Newsletter Sign Up Stay up to date with the latest Meteorology products, trends, events and information that is relevant to you. SIGN UP TODAY