Weather update

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- Tech. Sgt. Damion Madison sets up a tactical meteorological observation system during training at the flightline here. The system is a collection of weather sensors connected to a computer and Iridium data modem that measure cloud base, surface pressure, temperatures, dew points, wind speed and density altitude. It provides near-real-time mission-critical weather date to war planners and decision makers. The sergeant is a member of the 374th Operations Support Squadron combat weather team here. (U.S. Air Force photo by: Master Sgt. Val Gempis)

Weather update

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- Staff Sgt. Daniel Hayes set up a tactical meteorological observation system during training at the flightline here. The system is a collection of weather sensors connected to a computer and Iridium data modem that measure cloud base, surface pressure, temperatures, dew points, wind speed and density altitude. It provides near-real-time mission-critical weather date to war planners and decision makers. The sergeant is a member of the 374th Operations Support Squadron combat weather team here. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Val Gempis)

Predicting the weather

UDORN THANI, Thailand -- Marine Corps Sgt. Ryan Cunningham (left) and Staff Sgt. Michael Rudd will use a satellite receiver to provide a timely and accurate weather picture for crews aboard MC-130s, F/A-18s, KC-135 Stratotankers and C-12s during Cobra Gold 04. They are part of a multinational, multiservice team of weather forecasters here. Cobra Gold is an exercise designed to improve U.S., Thai, Singaporean, Mongolian and Filipino combined readiness and interoperability, enhance security relationships and demonstrate U.S. resolve in the region. Sergeant Cunningham is assigned to the Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 at Iwakuni, Japan. Sergeant Rudd is assigned to the 353rd Operations Support Squadron at Kadena Air Base, Japan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Michael Farris)