Briefing: Transforming science with unmanned systems

American Meteorological Society hosts NOAA media briefing on July 14

On Thursday, July 14, media are invited to join a briefing to learn how NOAA uses unmanned aircraft and watercraft to revolutionize the way scientists collect observations used to save lives and property and better manage valuable natural resources.

Unmanned aerial systems, such as the 'hexacopter' pictured above, are a powerful new tool for whale research. NOAA's John Durban, center, remotely directs the hexacopter into the outstretched hands of NOAA's Holly Fearnbach.

Unmanned aerial systems, such as the 'hexacopter' pictured above, are a powerful new tool for whale research. NOAA's John Durban, center, remotely directs the hexacopter into the outstretched hands of NOAA's Holly Fearnbach. (Image credit: Veronique LaCapra/WHOI)

NOAA scientists will discuss how a variety of unmanned tools are helping to monitor sea levels, manage coastal ecosystems, assess the health of marine mammals and collect weather and oceanographic information to improve the resilience of our nation’s communities.

WHAT:
Science media briefing webinar and Q and A

TOPIC:
Extending the reach of science with unmanned aircraft and watercraft

WHEN:
Thursday, July 14, 2016, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. ET

WHERE:
In-person media can join the briefing at the American Meteorological Society, 1200 New York Avenue NW, Suite 450, Washington, D.C.

WHO:

  • Robbie Hood, director, NOAA’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Program
  • Robert J. Moorhead II, computer engineer and director, NOAA’s Northern Gulf Institute
  • Jessica N. Cross, oceanographer, NOAA’s Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory
  • John W. Durban, marine mammal population ecologist, NOAA Fisheries Southwest Fisheries Science Center

HOW TO JOIN WEBINAR:  Media unable to join in person can join via webinar. Register in advance offsite link.

Once you register, you will receive an email with information needed to access the webinar by computer or by telephone. We recommend using a computer with audio to simplify participation in the question and answer portion for journalists. We strongly recommend registering in advance.

Media contact:
Monica Allen
301-734-1123