The INCUS project, based at Colorado State University, is focused on understanding storm behavior to improve severe weather predictions. Unfortunately, under President Trump’s proposed budget for NASA in 2026, INCUS may face termination, bringing an end to this vital mission.
Sue van den Heever leads INCUS, making history as the first woman to head a NASA Earth mission. She emphasizes how storms are dynamic, just like people, each with unique characteristics.
Current weather prediction mostly relies on ground-based radar. INCUS aims to change that. Using three satellites about the size of a mini-fridge, the project will observe storms like never before. This will be the first time satellite data is gathered on air and water movement within the troposphere, the lowest part of the atmosphere where most of our weather occurs.
Van den Heever notes, “We can slice through storms and see what’s happening inside.” Each satellite can provide a 3D view of storm activity, which could hugely impact how we forecast weather.
The mission involves cooperation with several private companies in Colorado, including Blue Canyon Technologies, which is constructing the satellite framework, and CU Boulder, assisting with mission operations. This collaboration showcases the innovative spirit of Colorado and aims to transform satellite technology. Unlike older satellites, which are heavy and cumbersome, INCUS uses lightweight instruments, making frequent observations of storms possible.
Despite the advances, not everyone is convinced of the project’s worth. Colorado Congresswoman Lauren Boebert has voiced concerns over government spending on climate science, questioning the effectiveness of such investments given ongoing natural disasters like wildfires in the state. She argues that resources should be prioritized for more immediate needs.
In contrast, experts like Jack Spencer from the Heritage Foundation recognize the importance of weather research. He highlights the national debt, suggesting that budgeting should be more focused, but agrees that understanding storm dynamics is critical as urban areas grow.
Van den Heever stresses the need for precise storm predictions as more people inhabit at-risk coastal and urban areas. “We need to protect our communities and their property better,” she explains.
Budgetary decisions regarding INCUS will be finalized by Congress soon, and while discussions about its future continue, CSU remains committed to pursuing funding. The university believes that federal investment in weather research is essential for improving forecasting accuracy, which benefits society as a whole.
Although the fate of INCUS hangs in the balance, van den Heever and her team are pressing on. They are dedicated to developing technology that could significantly enhance our understanding and prediction of severe weather events. It’s a race against time, but they remain hopeful for a successful launch and meaningful impact.
For more about INCUS and its objectives, visit the official INCUS website.
