Uses
Not long after being activated, the data collected by the satellite proved to be very useful in forecasting tropical cyclones. The scatterometer's ability to record wind speeds at the surface allows meteorologists to determine whether a low pressure area is forming and enhance the ability to predict sudden changes in structure and strength. QuikSCAT continuously provided data from across the globe without error, "The data are looking great, better even than we expected." The first tropical cyclone captured by the SeaWinds instrument was Typhoon Olga in the western Pacific basin. The system was constantly monitored by the satellite from its generation on July 28 to its demise in early August. Members of the QuikSCAT project believed that the satellite would eventually have a major role in climatological studies, weather prediction and oceanographic research.
During 2000, a public statement about the improvement of weather forecasting was attributed to the data provided by QuikSCAT. During the year, the satellite began recording wind directions, allowing forecasters to better predict when a storm could develop. Data was also provided in real-time for areas previously without recording devices, filling the information gaps across the world.
Other uses of the data include resource assessment for the emerging offshore wind energy industry. WindScan has taken advantage of satellite data specifically for this purpose.
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