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BAMOS April 2025
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Professor Steven Siems from Monash University provided an overview of the meteorology of Kennaook / Cape Grim and its influence on chemical observations. Dr Yi Huang from The University of Melbourne discussed the challenges and uncertainties surrounding cloud and precipitation over the Southern Ocean, and Professor Alfred Wiedensohler, Director of CAIS-ECAC, introduced key concepts in aerosol physics and instrumentation. These lectures laid a strong foundation for students from diverse academic backgrounds, ensuring a clear understanding of CAPE-k’ s research goals.
Workshop day 2
A highlight of the second day was the site visit to KCGBAPS. We saw cutting-edge atmospheric instrumentation in operation and gained a deeper appreciation for the data we would be working with. We even had the opportunity to attend a weather balloon launch. This moment was fascinating and provided valuable insight into real-time atmospheric data collection. The visit also included a cultural engagement session with the Circular Head Aboriginal Corporation, where we learned about Indigenous knowledge of seasonal patterns and environmental changes. The discussions offered a fascinating perspective on how traditional observations align with modern scientific approaches to atmospheric studies.
Workshop days 3 & 4
The final two days of the Summer School were dedicated to a hackathon, where we applied our newly acquired knowledge to real-world scientific challenges. Working in four project groups, guided by mentors from the University of Wollongong, the University of Michigan, the University of Melbourne, and Monash University, we analyzed ARM data, developed coding solutions, and tackled pressing questions in Earth science. Our group focused on the interactions between low-level clouds, precipitation, and aerosols using a case study. A better understanding of such processes enhances climate modeling accuracy, leading to more effective adaptation and mitigation strategies. At the end of the hackathon, each group presented their key findings and discussed potential future research directions.
The CAPE-k Summer School was made possible through the support of the ARC Centre of Excellence for the Weather of the 21st Century, the Australian Community Climate and Earth- System Simulator National Research Infrastructure( ACCESS- NRI), AMOS, the Clean Air Society of Australia and New Zealand( CASANZ), the BOM and CSIRO. I would also like to acknowledge the contributions of Max Grover, Scott Collis( the ARM User Facility), and Clare Murphy( the University of Wollongong) for their efforts in organizing and supporting the event.
The Summer School provided hands-on experience, expert guidance, and a collaborative environment. We left Stanley with valuable new skills and insights that will contribute to the ongoing study of clouds and precipitation in one of the world’ s most scientifically significant regions.
Balloon launch at KCGBAPS. Credit: Scott Collis