Thailand plans to study its own atmosphere

Shortly after NASA announced the cancellation of the Southeast Asian climate research project (SEAC4RS), a group of about 20 leading Thai scientists planned to study the atmosphere themselves to improve understanding. climate and improve the weather forecast for the country's authorities.

Project leader, director of Thailand Geospatial and Information Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) Anond Snidwongs said that scientists from 5 universities and GISTDA will conduct research in 2 phases. . Phase 1 from September to October 2012, studying monsoon information in the Adaman sea area and the Gulf of Thailand. Phase 2 can be done in the middle of the month 2-3 years later to find out the source of the widespread smoke in the North every year.

In addition to GISTDA, the project also needs coordinated assistance from other agencies such as the Royal Navy, Bureau of Meteorology, Bureau to create rain and apply aircraft to Royal agricultural production .

Minister of Science and Technology Plodprasop Suraswadi said the budget of 200 million baht (equivalent to 6.3 million USD) will be submitted to the Government for consideration on July 3.

Mr. Plodprasop said that although the project is not in line with NASA's plan, this will be the first step for Thai scientists in the field of Earth research, helping Thailand adapt to climate change.

Plodprasop also confirmed that the project was not political and asked the opposition Democratic Party not to politicize the issue as it did with NASA's proposal.