Inactive

Requirements The United States Government, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking alternative locations to locate its upper air observations in Barnstable County, Massachuse... Requirements The United States Government, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking alternative locations to locate its upper air observations in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. In 2021, upper air observations from Chatham, Massachusetts [site identifier KCHH, WMO identifier 74494] ceased due to significant erosion of the coastal bluff where the upper air station was located. As a result, the site was decommissioned. National Weather Service (NWS) upper air stations gather observations using radiosondes. At least twice per day, a radiosonde is tied to a weather balloon and is launched. The radiosonde floats to the upper stratosphere where it collects and sends back data about air pressure, temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and wind direction. Upper-air data are essential for weather prediction and research. To find out more about our observation systems please go to https://www.weather.gov/about/observation-equipment. For the National Weather Service (NWS), the nationwide network of upper air stations plays a crucial role in meeting the agency’s mission. State: Massachusetts County: Barnstable Delineated Area: Within Barnstable County, Massachusetts NOAA is requesting if your facility possesses a rectangular site area [minimum 22 feet by 6 feet or 132 square feet for the Upper Air Structure with a perimeter area allowing for vehicles, pavers, security fence and right-of-way to utility lines] for the placement. The site must possess the appropriate low density land use [i.e. Industrial, low rise and/or Government use] for launching balloons with radiosondes with surrounding open area permitting the balloons to ascend without obstacles. Site geometry must be contiguous and rectangular Site topography must be not limit the Government’s use, construction and access. Zoning: Industrial or comparable type of zoning i.e. airport, including surrounding or adjacent uses Paved Access (Surface) for vehicle access Government’s structure includes storing of low quantities of helium and/or hydrogen for use in launching weather balloons Open area and line of site at least 300 feet surrounding the proposed site without trees and other obstructions to ensure weather balloons launch Government to construct: a) Upper Air Structure (roughly 132 Square Feet); b) pave around structure for vehicle access; c) security fence; and, d) above or below ground utility connections to nearest utilities. Government may review and determine site does not meet technical requirements. To propose a location ready for inspection, the site must meet the federal government’s requirements and must not be in a floodplain or wetland and be accessible by vehicle immediately proximate to paved roadways, near public right-of-ways and utility lines. Additional Information Additional requirements and information on the radiosonde program area attached. In evaluating, NOAA may eliminate a proposed site if it is determined by the Government the site will not support its program. Expected Occupancy is by Autumn 2023 Due Date Due Date of Potential Sources: May 31, 2023. Contact Information Please feel free to submit via email to: Christian Townsend christian.townsend@noaa.gov 240-753-4387