The ability to collect physical, chemical and biological observations across a wide range

of altitudes is essential for an understanding of atmospheric processes. These are then

used as boundary conditions in numerical engineering models. Some of the applications
where high altitude atmospheric surveillance is used extensively include: (A. Sobester,
2011)

Weather forecasting: Large numbers of weather balloon soundings are integrated

into numerical weather prediction models

Pollution and aerosol monitoring sampling of ash clouds: Ash density

measurements are used to formulate maps with contour lines around safe zones.
In addition, fallout monitoring after nuclear incidents require accurate
atmospheric observations.

Observation of extreme weather phenomena: A map of wind speeds,

temperatures and humidities across hailstorms, tornadoes and other extreme
events can facilitate the understanding of the physics behind them and lead to
improved prediction models.

Aeronautical engineering research: Investigating icing and contrail formation

phenomena is requires a thorough analysis of the associated atmospheric
variables.