Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences

Stuart Bradley
CIRES Visiting Fellow
2012-2013

Sabbatical
Ph.D., The University of Auckland, New Zealand

Project: Remote sensing of turbulent generated acoustic noise

Stuart Bradley is a professor of physics at The University of Auckland, New Zealand. His research focuses on atmospheric boundary layer processes, particularly using sound to remotely sense atmospheric turbulence and winds for applications such as wind energy.

Working with the Special Projects Group and Multiscale Interactions researchers, Bradley is conducting research into the background noise—much of it likely caused by turbulence—that affects the quality of acoustic ‘radars’ known as sodars, which are used in remote sensing of the atmosphere. “I am modeling and measuring this noise with the objectives of improving acoustic remote sensing using sodars,” Bradley says. “I’m also investigating whether the spectral signatures of this noise allow for a new, entirely passive, microphone-based method of profiling atmospheric turbulence.” The results of his work may provide the basics for a leap forward in acoustic remote sensing of atmospheric winds and turbulence. 

While in Colorado, Bradley and his wife will be swapping sea kayaks for hiking boots. “We are keen hikers, so we will be hunting for good walks in our leisure time,” he says.

Sponsors: Bill Neff and Mike Hardesty