Baingoin County, Xizang Autonomous Region — China has unveiled the world’s highest-altitude meteorological observation station featuring BeiDou navigation technology. Established by the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), this groundbreaking station is set at a national meteorological observation site in Baingoin County, marking a significant advancement in high-altitude weather monitoring.
During its inaugural operation, a balloon equipped with advanced sensors ascended over a span of 65 minutes, reaching altitudes from 4,706 meters to an impressive 31,680 meters. “The balloon transmitted vital meteorological data including temperature, humidity, air pressure, wind direction, and wind speed,” reported Pema Dorje, an official from the local meteorological bureau.
The integration of BeiDou navigation technology enhances the precision and reliability of data collection. Once fully operational, the station will significantly improve meteorological observations by combining ground-level and high-altitude data. This will enhance weather monitoring accuracy across the region, particularly on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, known for its complex and severe weather conditions.
The new station will bolster efforts in tracking and predicting extreme weather events such as thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. It will also support precipitation studies and strengthen disaster prevention and mitigation strategies, benefiting local communities and contributing to regional safety.
This initiative is part of China’s broader plan to enhance its meteorological observation capabilities. In July 2023, the CMA announced a nationwide upgrade from the current L-band sounding system to the BeiDou sounding system over the next three years. By 2025, all 131 meteorological stations across the country are expected to complete this transition, addressing observation gaps and advancing the nation’s meteorological services.
Reference(s):
China launches world's highest meteorological observation station
cgtn.com
