The IEEE Central Illinois Section (CILS) will return to the National Weather Service (NWS) forecasting and radar site in Lincoln, IL. This event will include a technical presentation regarding storm forecasting via the WSR-88D dual-polarization radar, weather balloons, satellite telemetry, and related technologies. The event will close with a tour of the forecasting office.

This free, in-person event is open to all IEEE members and IEEE students 18 years of age or older. Space is limited, so you must register first if you plan to attend.

• Event time: Tuesday, October 29th, 2024 (4 PM to 5 PM Central Time)
• Event location: National Weather Service, 1362 IL-10, Lincoln, IL 62656
• Registration page: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/434887

According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL), dual-polarization radar can extract information about the horizontal and vertical properties of particles held aloft. These size and shape data allow meteorologists to classify rain, ice pellets, snow, hail, non-precipitation particles and ground clutter with greater accuracy.

The Lincoln weather office is also the launch site for weather balloons. The weather balloons (launched twice daily under normal conditions) carry an attached radiosonde to altitudes approaching 100,000 ft. (30 km). These readings are then transmitted to equipment on the ground as a tried-and-true method for measuring atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity, wind speed, and wind direction.

Parking spaces are available adjacent the building, and the facility is wheelchair accessible. Restrooms and a water fountain will also be available. Federal law prohibits all visitors from bringing firearms or other weapons into the facility. For any additional questions: please see the attached contact information.

Can’t Attend?

Even if you can’t attend this 4 PM event, there will be another IEEE CILS event happening in nearby Springfield, IL from 6 PM to 8 PM Central Time.