Innovations In Autonomous Aerial Systems And Cloud Seeding Materials Highlighted At 7th IREF

The 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF) continued with engaging discussions on its second day, organised by the National Center of Meteorology through the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP). The event focused on advancing technology and innovation in rainfall enhancement and empowering future researchers.

A session titled "Advances in Autonomous Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for Weather Modification Applications" explored how UAS technologies aid rainfall enhancement. Experts like Dr. Chaouki Kasmi from the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and Jan Henneberger from ETH Zurich participated. They discussed challenges such as technological readiness, regulatory issues, and economic feasibility.

Panelists shared technical presentations showcasing advancements in UAS applications. Jan Henneberger discussed the Glaciogenic Cloud Seeding Using Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles – CloudLab project. Vasile Istrate presented innovations in fixed-wing UAVs for cloud seeding, while Roelof Burger evaluated the role of UAS in cloud seeding.

The next session, led by Dr. Mohammed Mahmoud of the Climate and Water Initiative, focused on designing novel cloud seeding materials. James Sweeney from Weather Modification International opened the discussion. Experts like Miloslav Belorid and Professor Linda Zou explored glaciogenic and hygroscopic agents' potential in cloud seeding operations.

Technical presentations highlighted research breakthroughs. Miloslav Belorid analysed cloud seeding materials using K-CPEC Laboratory data. Professor Linda Zou examined the interplay between materials science and cloud physics. Ottmar Möhler discussed new cloud simulation chambers for ice nucleation experiments.

Empowering Emerging Researchers

The day's final session featured poster presentations by students and early-career scientists, showcasing their work in rain enhancement. Participants from various institutions presented findings, highlighting advancements in related fields. This session emphasised UAEREP’s dedication to nurturing future innovators in rain enhancement research.

This year’s IREF aligns with UAEREP’s 10th anniversary, marking a decade of commitment to rain enhancement science as a sustainable solution to water scarcity challenges globally. UAEREP has invested AED 82.6 million into 11 research projects, resulting in eight patents with three pending registration, alongside three ongoing projects.

UAEREP's efforts continue to contribute significantly to water and food security locally and worldwide through innovative research and development initiatives.

With inputs from WAM