How does ASOS collect weather data?

ASOS, which stands for Automated Surface Observing System, collects weather data automatically through an array of ground sensors. These sensors measure various atmospheric parameters such as temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, sky condition, and precipitation. The automated nature of ASOS allows for continuous and real-time monitoring of weather conditions, which is crucial for a variety of applications, including aviation, climatology, and public safety. The data collected by these ground sensors is transmitted to various data centers for analysis and dissemination, ensuring that the information is timely and accurate.

The other methods mentioned, such as manual observation, satellite imagery, and reporting airborne data, do not adequately reflect how ASOS operates. While manual observation can be useful in some contexts, it is not how ASOS collects data. Satellite imagery provides a broad view of weather patterns but lacks the precise, ground-level data collected by ASOS. Similarly, airborne data is specific to measurements taken in flight and does not pertain to the routine ground-level assessments that ASOS performs.