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  Digital Camera StationsBack to Title Page

Barrel Cactus
(600 x 400, 243 kilobytes)
Introduction

Because of the temporal and/or spatial resolutions of existing satellite imaging systems, it is difficult to capture short-lived events, such as dust storms, sediment plumes, or volcanic eruptions, on a regular basis. In order to capture various sized dust storms and document some of the sources and transport patterns we are using digital cameras set up in the field as stand-alone stations.

Four digital cameras are installed in the Mojave Desert. The cameras are controlled by a data logger, which receives information from an on-site anemometer (wind velocity sensor). The data logger automatically triggers three of the four cameras to collect digital photographs when the winds exceed a selected threshold. The data logger triggers the fourth camera twice daily to collect photographs for visibility change analysis.

Shown on this page are examples of the digital photographs automatically collected by the camera stations and pictures illustrating the various components and installation of the camera stations.

Camera Station Set-up

Stuart Sides and Rich Tigges setting up a camera station

View of camera station

Close-up view of camera and data logger configuration
(600 x 400, 150 kilobytes average)

Example Photos

Wind Event
03/05/2000, Zoom out


Wind Event
03/05/2000, Zoom in


Wind Event
04/21/2000, Zoom out

(600 x 400, 150 kilobytes average)

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References

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