Innovative Instrumentation: 3D-PAWS Sensors

A photo showing the 2024 3D-PAWS unit model.

This 2024 3D-PAWS unit is expanding weather observations at the NSF NCAR Marshall Field in Boulder, CO. 

Standard 3D-PAWS Unit

Our standard 3D-Printed Automatic Weather Stations (3D-PAWS) measure pressure, temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, wind direction, precipitation, and visible, infrared, and UV light. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Customized Sensors

In addition to the sensors included on our standard units, local and regional weather services can also add these sensors customized to their weather observation needs. 

 

A photo showing a 3D-PAWS storm surge sensor over a lake.

The storm surge sensor detects changes in water levels to provide early warning of inundation hazards. 

3D-PAWS Storm Surge Sensor

The 3D-PAWS storm surge sensor provides early warning and evaluation of storm surge forecasts and coastal inundation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A photo showing people next to a 3D-PAWS unit and stream gauge.

A 3D-PAWS stream gauge sensor at the Speightstown stormwater canal in Barbados next to the standard 3D-PAWS.

3D-PAWS Stream Gauge Sensor

The 3D-PAWS stream gauge sensor provides early warning for floods and droughts and facilitates water resource management.

 

 

 

 

 

 

A photo of a 3D-PAWS snow depth sensor.

The snow depth sensor provides early detection of seasonal changes and snowmelt. 

3D-PAWS Snow Depth Sensor

The 3D-PAWS snow depth sensor can be used to monitor seasonal changes in snowpack and can provide early detection of snowmelt.