Robots and Sensors: Monitoring a changing climate with new technology
When you think of climate tech, it’s easy to picture sleek solar panels, flashy carbon-capture systems, or futuristic gadgets that sound like they belong in a sci-fi film. But some of the most impactful technologies tackling our changing climate don’t look the part. They quietly drift through oceans, perch in trees, or hover above disaster zones—often unnoticed, yet working tirelessly. Let’s talk about the robots and sensors that are turning data into action, from ocean currents to wildfire hotspots. Watching the Ocean’s Pulse (One Glider at a Time) Deep beneath the surface of the North Atlantic, robotic gliders are monitoring the state of our oceans. These uncrewed submarines are part of an ambitious mission to track changes in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC)—a system of ocean currents that helps regulate our climate. Why do we care about AMOC? Because if the AMOC weakens significantly (which some research suggests it might), we’re looking at major disruptions: ...