Automated Weather Station

Automated weather stations (AWS) provide continuous in-situ observations of near-surface meteorological conditions.

In the DARWIN project, AWS deployments were designed to cover coastal, transitional, and highland environments across the Galapagos Archipelago.

Typical observed variables

• air temperature
• relative humidity
• wind speed and direction
• surface pressure
• shortwave radiation
• rainfall and drizzle indicators (site dependent)

Network design rationale

• Resolve strong elevation gradients in Precipitation and cloud exposure.
• Capture seasonal transitions between hot season convection and Garua conditions.
• Provide evaluation data for Dynamical downscaling experiments.

Role in validation

The network provides the observational backbone for the Galapagos refined analysis and related publication work. Public notes describe station classes and scientific purpose, while detailed maintenance and siting information remain private.

See also: Cerro Crocker, DARWIN project, Galapagos refined analysis validation data, MOC Galapagos Climate System