[Webinar Series] Contrails observations with cameras and satellites – from lab to airfield?
Contrails detection and observation has been a topic investigated by researchers since several years, but the development is reaching a new peak with the first commercial airlines interested in applying MET services capable of predicting the eco-sensitive areas, as well as monitoring their evolution in real time. In this webinar, we’ll explore state-of-the-art technology for detecting and monitoring contrails, and showcase two different methods mastering the technical challenge of contrail identification and evaluation. Dinesh Sanekommu from Google and Sarah Vadillo-Quesada from Reuniwatt will focus on their technology, and share lessons learned through the application of their respective methods within pilot projects.
Contrails in the evening sky above a lake (Photo by Brigitte Elsner via unsplash)
Reuniwatt’s cloud observation expertise using all-sky imagers allows them to highlight the accomplishments achieved using these key instruments at the EUROCONTROL contrail observatory. Google will focus on contrail observation using deep learning techniques based on satellite imagery. Philippe Very from EUROCONTROL will guide you through the event based on their practical experience with the EUROCONTROL contrail observatory and contrail prevention trials.
Thanks to this webinar, you will have an understanding of:
state-of-the-art methods for detecting and monitoring contrails and cirrus clouds
using all-sky imagers as a way to observe and match contrails from the ground
how satellite data and deep learning enable us to detect contrails amongst natural clouds
the potential and limitations of technologies used for contrail avoidance
About the speakers:
Philippe Very is a Senior Data Scientist at EUROCONTROL, specializing in the Aviation Sustainability Unit. With a strong background in data science, he has contributed to various projects aimed at understanding and mitigating the environmental impacts of aviation, particularly concerning contrails and non-CO2 emissions. Philippe holds a degree from ENSAE Paris and has previously worked with companies such as Lend-Rx Technology and Talan.
Dinesh Sanekommu leads Google Research’s contrails team, which develops AI-based solutions that enable verifiable contrail mitigation. Dinesh contributes to advancing technologies that facilitate the integration of climate considerations into aviation operations. He obtained an MSc in Computer Sciences from The University of Texas at Austin.
Sarah Vadillo-Quesada graduated with a dual degree in energy engineering and business administration, before developing an extensive background in public affairs by integrating the French Ministry of Ecological Transition and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where she contributed to developing research partnerships between French and American Universities. She joined Reuniwatt’s Paris office in 2021 to develop collaborations with universities and projects in the PV sector.
Philippe Very
Moderator
Senior Data Scientist – Aviation Sustainibility Unit @EUROCONTROL
Dinesh Sanekommu
Speaker
Product Manager at Google Research @Google
Sarah Vadillo-Quesada
Speaker
Business Developer @Reuniwatt
About EUROCONTROL (www.eurocontrol.int)
EUROCONTROL, is an international organisation working to achieve safe and seamless air traffic management across Europe. It actively facilitates a pan-European stakeholder collaborative approach to respond effectively to aviation’s sustainability challenges, to optimise air traffic management and the wider aviation sector. EUROCONTROL’s Aviation Sustainability Unit supports European aviation in reducing its environmental impact by developing tools, conducting research, and providing expertise on various sustainability initiatives, including flight efficiency improvements, CO2 emissions reduction, and the implementation of sustainable aviation fuels.
About Google Research (sites.research.google/contrails/)
Google Research advances the state of the art through research, systems engineering, and collaboration across Google, sharing their latest developments in order to collaboratively progress computing and science. Google Research’s contrails unit develops AI-powered tools to predict and reduce contrail formation from aircraft, helping airlines adjust their flight paths to avoid contrail-prone areas.
About Reuniwatt (www.reuniwatt.com)
Reuniwatt is a major player in solar radiation and cloud cover assessment and forecasting. Based on solid Research and Development works, the company offers reliable products and services intended for professionals of various fields, making the best out of two key facets of meteorology: atmospheric physics and data sciences. A particular focus has been placed on solar energy forecasting, while developing cutting edge solutions to improve the short-term prediction of the solar resource. The company has won many grants, including H2020’s SME Phase 1 programme, which makes Reuniwatt a European Champion with regard to innovation.