Taking to the skies with kites: This paper explores the application of kites as a versatile platform for meteorological measurements within the atmospheric boundary layer, offering a unique and cost-effective alternative to conventional methods. The lightweight, portable nature of kites makes them ideal for remote locations and challenging terrains where access for traditional profiling equipment is limited. The basic kite aerodynamics are explained as well as a number of practical problems which have to be overcome or accommodated. The authors describe the development of a reliable, tethered radiosonde atmospheric profiling system (TRAPS), comparing the performance of different kite types and sizes. They address practical challenges in kite deployment and operation, suggesting appropriate kite selection for specific wind conditions. Experimental results from diverse remote sites, including Antarctica, Cumbria, and the Isle of Arran, demonstrate the profiling system's practical applications. These include investigating surface inversions, flow over hills, and convective boundary-layer structure, showcasing the value of kites in atmospheric research.
This article on using kites for boundary layer meteorology aligns with Meteorological Applications' emphasis on innovative measurement techniques and practical applications. The journal often features studies that explore new ways to gather atmospheric data and improve our understanding of meteorological processes.