Home / Weather / Muppets Fly Into Hurricanes: NOAA's Wild Weather Labs
Muppets Fly Into Hurricanes: NOAA's Wild Weather Labs
13 Jul
Summary
- NOAA's hurricane hunter aircraft are nicknamed Kermit and Miss Piggy.
- These planes collect vital data to improve storm forecasts and safety.
- Muppet insignia aim to inspire interest in science and weather preparedness.
For fifty years, NOAA has deployed specialized aircraft to fly into the heart of hurricanes, gathering essential data. Two Lockheed WP-3D Orion planes, nicknamed Kermit and Miss Piggy, are central to this mission. These aircraft, based in Lakeland, Florida, collect information that significantly enhances storm understanding, forecast models, and preparedness efforts.
The whimsical Muppet-themed insignia on Kermit and Miss Piggy were introduced in 1992. This creative decision by NOAA aimed to stimulate children's interest in science and weather studies. Additionally, the program serves to promote hurricane preparedness and general awareness of dangerous weather conditions across all age groups.
These veteran aircraft log countless hours in extreme turbulence, with their plush toy mascots serving as impromptu indicators of severe conditions. NOAA plans to continue research missions with these planes through 2030, after which they are slated for display in aviation museums. Plans are also underway to add a fourth Muppet-themed aircraft to the fleet.
