NASA’s Langley Research Center has developed a novel method for long-range atmospheric pressure sensing. Based on known properties involving oxygen density, the technology is able to measure small pressure changes over a wide area. NASA developed the technology to address known gaps in the area of weather forecasting as a result of the inability to accurately detect atmospheric pressure above the ocean. Oxygen band reading can be performed remotely, most likely from a satellite-based system. The technology is particularly applicable in the area of storm forecasting.

A diagram of the front end of the baseline radar system.

Understanding the characteristics of a weather system is vital to predicting the path and severity of storms such as hurricanes and typhoons. The surface air pressure over the ocean is one of the key characteristics that can be used in making those predictions. Current long-range technologies can perform only loose estimations of the surface air pressure based on wind speed and direction. Direct measurements of the air pressure require costly and risky plane missions through the storm to collect periodic data. The oxygen band radar system developed by NASA Langley allows for the continuous remote monitoring of atmospheric pressure over the world’s oceans.

The technology incorporates the use of a low-power laser frequency specific to the known oxygen band. By using this narrow band, the researchers are able to measure surface level oxygen density and subsequently, air pressure. The increased knowledge of localized air pressure will significantly enhance the predictive power of weather forecasting models and allow for the development of new models.

Possible uses for

this technology include increased forecasting ability for weather applications, short-range secret communications for military applications, and improved flight ops planning for Navy applications.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to commercialize this technology. Please contact The Technology Gateway at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to initiate licensing discussions. Follow this link for more information: http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/LAR-TOPS-102 .