Cloud seeding tech: UAEREP’s 5th grant cycle project launches

The UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP) has wrapped up its roadshow in the US, marking an important step forward in enabling research collaborations in weather enhancement technologies.

The roadshow also saw the official launch of the 5th UAEREP grant cycle project led by Professor Will Cantrell from Michigan Technological University (MTU).

The tour included visits to prominent research centres in Michigan and New York, such as Michigan Technological University (MTU) and its Great Lakes Research Center, NASA, IBM’s Thomas J. Watson Research Center, Columbia University, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and The City College of New York.

The visits aimed to explore advanced technology and water sustainability research opportunities.

As the programme prepares to announce its new grants cycle starting in January 2025, it will focus on five key areas: enhanced seeding materials, rain enhancement systems, autonomous aerial systems, localised climate intervention, and advanced models, software, and data.

Additionally, the programme will build on the outputs of 14 previously funded research projects.

The UAEREP delegation also participated in the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in New York.

This involvement allowed the team to engage with the latest global trends related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation) and SDG 13 (climate action), supporting water sustainability goals through innovative rain enhancement technologies.

The roadshow strengthened cooperation with key stakeholders, scientists, and experts in weather modification and rain enhancement research. It facilitated the exchange of expertise in water security and environmental sustainability with leading researchers from the visited institutions.

Seeking effective solutions for rain enhancement

Dr Abdulla Al Mandous, director general of the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) and President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), stated, “In line with the UAE’s commitment to supporting groundbreaking research initiatives and building international partnerships, we seek effective solutions to address water scarcity challenges and improve weather worldwide.”

Alya Al Mazroui, director of UAEREP, highlighted the focus on launching Professor Cantrell’s innovative project at MTU. “Their project utilises laboratory studies and modelling to determine the suitability of clouds for hygroscopic seeding. We look forward to further collaboration with Professor Cantrell through the unique expertise and research infrastructure provided by the national centre.”

Professor Cantrell’s project, titled  Laboratory and Modeling Studies of Cloud Susceptibility to Hygroscopic Seeding, aims to identify clouds that can be effectively modified for enhanced precipitation.

The project will use MTU’s unique cloud chamber to study cloud properties and determine the amount of seeding materials and charging required for successful rain enhancement operations.

Professor Cantrell expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “My team and I are thrilled to share the details of our ambitious project. We are confident that this research will make a significant contribution alongside other projects that have received programme grants in previous cycles.”

The research team includes key researchers from the University of Utah, Mesa Photonics Laboratory, and Weather Modification International.

The project aligns with UAEREP’s vision of supporting initiatives that foster capacity building within the research community, ensuring sustained progress and knowledge exchange in the field of rain enhancement science.