The Mesonet Tower

The mesonet tower extends 10 meters (approximately 30 feet) above the ground and houses a range of high-quality sensors that collect real-time weather and climate data. Each site is designed for autonomous operation, powered by a 50-watt solar panel with an 84 amp-hour battery backup to ensure uninterrupted performance during periods of low sunlight or at night.

Sensors at each site measure key environmental parameters such as wind, temperature, humidity, precipitation, solar radiation, and soil conditions. These parameters are sampled at high frequencies—every 3 to 60 seconds—and averaged over 5-minute intervals to improve data accuracy and reduce short-term variability.

Collected data is transmitted via cellular networks to the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM), where it is securely archived in a centralized database. This data is made accessible to the public through a web-based platform and is also delivered in real time to mesonet partners via the National Mesonet Program, enabling faster, more informed decisions in sectors such as emergency management, agriculture, energy, and transportation.