Observations and Engineering Branch
Networks & Measurements | Atmosphere Watch | Satellites | Radar Engineering
Instrument Engineering | Engineering Services | Organisation
The Observations and Engineering Branch is a branch of the Bureau's Systems Division.
Role To manage the Bureau's Observations and Engineering Services Component Programs and in doing so, arrange for the provision of:
- observational data for all Bureau Programs; and
- engineering and related technical services to support all Bureau activities and particularly the Observations and Communications Component Programs.
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The Branch objectives are to:
- ensure the effective and efficient operation of the Bureau's basic surface and upper air observing networks and other meteorological observing facilities;
- ensure successful operation of the Bureau's special climate and environment related monitoring networks;
- ensure other special observational requirements for Bureau activities are met;
- ensure effective national coordination of meteorological and oceanographic networks;
- maintain expertise in developments in meteorological observing methods and practices;
- ensure appropriate advice and assistance is provided to the Bureau on observational matters so it can achieve its goals and objectives;
- ensure the effective and efficient planning, installation and maintenance of plant and equipment required for the Bureau's programs;
- provide specialist engineering advice to meet all Bureau requirements;
- ensure effective nationwide coordination of maintenance of technical facilities; and
- set a uniform standard of excellence for the Bureau's observations and engineering activities.
The functions of the Observations and Engineering Branch are to:
- plan, control and monitor the overall performance of the Observations and Engineering Component Programs;
- plan, establish and review the Bureau's observing networks and programs;
- evaluate and prescribe the techniques and systems to be used in the observing networks;
- develop and define observing standards and procedures and issue relevant instructions;
- monitor the performance of the observing networks and systems, and liaise with the Bureau's Regional Offices for inspections and maintenance;
- plan, implement and supervise meteorlogical satellite data acquisition, processing and display systems ;
- arrange the acquisition or upgrade, installation, integration and commissioning of observing equipment and systems;
- develop new observing and engineering support equipment and systems when the required equipment or systems are not available commercially;
- plan and arrange the maintenance of engineering and technical equipment and systems and supervise their technical performance;
- coordinate relevant observing systems as far as practicable, at the national level, in collaboration with other authorities;
- undertake supporting research and development;
- maintain a centre of expertise in the fields of meteorological measurements and observations, meteorological radar, satellite systems and general meteorological instrument engineering; and
- represent Australia on relevant World Meteorological Organization commissions and bodies.
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