MOL trials world’s first onboard wind measurement device

A small yacht was used in the experiment, and it successfully measured real-time and three-dimensional wind conditions within a 15 kilometre radius while underway. The system uses an irradiating infrared laser, harmless to humans, that detects reflections from floating particles in the atmosphere.

The system can measure winds around vessels directly and provide a visual representation of them. The aim is to provide more accurate wind estimates than weather forecasts from satellites.

Metro Weather’s Doppler Lidar was originally designed for measurements on land use basis, so the test involved real-time corrections for vessel motion and movement. The device calculates its own position and speed using only its incorporated sensor without relying on external support such as radio waves.

MOL and Metro Weather will promote the device which they believe will improve safety and support voyage planning for ships using wind power.

MOL decided to invest in Metro Weather through its wholly-owned corporate venture capital firm, MOL PLUS.