A ‘‘Quad‐Disc’’ static pressure probe for measurement in adverse atmospheres: With a comparative review of static pressure probe designs

There are many areas of need for accurate measurements of atmospheric static pressure. These include observations of surface meteorology, airport altimeter settings, pressure distributions around buildings, moving measurement platforms, as well as basic measurements of fluctuating pressures in turbulence. Most of these observations require long‐term observations in adverse environments (e.g., rain, dust, or snow). Currently, many pressure measurements are made, of necessity, within buildings, thus involving potential errors of several millibars in mean pressure during moderate winds, accompanied by large fluctuating pressures induced by the structure. In response to these needs we designed a ‘‘Quad‐Disc’’ pressure probe for continuous, outdoor monitoring purposes which is inherently weather protected. This Quad‐Disc probe has the desirable features of omnidirectional response and small error in pitch. A review of past static pressure probes contrasts design approaches and capabilities.