Aiolus: Revolutionizing Wind Monitoring with Laser Sensors

The video discusses the use of laser sensors to monitor global wind patterns, highlighting the limitations of current balloon-based systems. It emphasizes the economic impact of hurricanes, citing past events like Hurricane Mitch. The European Space Agency's Aiolus satellite program, awarded to EADS Estrium, aims to enhance wind measurement capabilities. Additionally, other European satellite initiatives will monitor Earth's ice caps, gravity fields, and humidity, with data accessible to all countries.

What is the financial value of the contract awarded to build Aiolus?

What is the expected lifetime of the Aiolus satellite program?