I first installed the first networked mini-SODAR system in 1999 at Vandenberg AFB in support of Western Range launch mission. One of the launch constraints we always looked for was wind shear as it can have disastrous results to expensive vehicles especially at lower levels. The mini-SODAR solved these problems and many more as we progressed toward testing.

In addition to the WR I also installed a network at the Eastern Range at five different locations. It was a similar installation. The units were easy to interface and provided an easy interface using FTP. Scripting the units enabled us to easily interface with the central server.

Three years later, I found myself in charge of maintaining these networks in addition to the entire weather suite of weather data producers at Vandenberg AFB. The technicians who worked for me swore by the reliability of the units. The most difficult problems were network issues which were generally easily solved. We had a smattering of hard drive failures and these were easily resolved.

Eight years later, I had a chance to evaluate the latest version and immediately fell in love with it. It was immensely easy to work on. Mechanically, they had removed the external audio amplifier which was a problem with earlier units. The OS had been changed to Linux which facilitated configuration and networking of all units. Security-wise, they had installed the secure version of FTP which improved the security posture of the unit immensely. Reliability of the unit and accuracy was much improved. It still provides 15 meters resolution up to a height of 300 meters. Having worked closely with the Launch Weather Officers, I am well aware of the importance of wind shear measurements for nearly all launch vehicles.