Although these instruments are still used, thankfully, the situation is quite different in 2019.
Equipped with South African Weather Service meteorological measuring instruments conforming to the highest international standards, the SA Agulhas II vessel is able to accurately measure atmospheric parameters throughout the Weddell Sea Expedition. These measurements are supplemented with visual observations (of such phenomena as weather, clouds and sea ice) done manually by the onboard meteorologist, giving a more complete picture of current weather conditions. Additionally, several weather balloons have been released into the atmosphere (the highest reaching 22.6 kilometers!) and drifting weather buoys have been deployed into the Weddell Sea, all in an effort to learn more about the atmosphere in one of the most under-researched parts of the world.
Meteorology wisdom reveals that a good forecast begins with good observations. Each day, the onboard meteorologist compiles three-day weather forecasts using both observations and our internet-based numerical weather models. The forecasts are useful for a number of operations on the ship, including the use of the autonomous underwater vehicles essential in the search for the Endurance shipwreck. The accuracy of these forecasts is a testament to the progress of meteorology, given the historic scarcity of surface observations in these parts.
With more observations from the furthest reaches of the world; research giving a fuller picture of our earth system; and computing power increasing at lightning speeds, meteorology continues its forward march of progress.
