NASA’s Atmospheric Wave Instrument (AWE) detected gravity waves 55 miles above Earth when Hurricane Helene hit Florida. These waves were sent up from the Earth’s surface by the extreme forces created by the hurricane and were detected in the mesosphere by an instrument on the International Space Station (ISS).
Studying these waves helps scientists understand how Earth-based weather phenomena can affect space weather, which is crucial for the operation of satellites, communication signals, and other technologies. The AWE is designed to study airglow, the faint glow emitted by gases at high altitudes, and will provide valuable insights into upper atmospheric changes in space weather and improve forecasts.
