A start-up from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), known as Stellerus Technology, is poised to become the first global provider of satellite-enabled three-dimensional (3D) wind data. This innovative service is designed to assist industries such as wind energy, transportation, and insurance in enhancing profitability while effectively managing costs and risks.
Founded in 2023 by a group of academics from HKUST, Stellerus intends to leverage China”s strengths in satellite manufacturing to make the collection of global 3D wind data economically viable. “Upon arriving in Hong Kong, I recognized that the technology available for executing such a project in mainland China was advanced, and the expenses would be significantly lower compared to other countries,” stated Su Hui, chairwoman and co-founder of Stellerus.
The acquisition of 3D wind data—capturing wind speed, direction, and variations with altitude—is essential for enhancing weather forecasts, particularly in predicting extreme climate events. In the United States, constructing a satellite for this purpose could reach costs of up to $100 million, whereas in China, the expenses are projected to be around CNY20 million (approximately $2.8 million).
Stellerus has ambitious plans to launch two satellites within the next 18 months, followed by an additional five satellites to establish a functioning constellation. This initiative is part of their broader strategy to deliver high-quality 3D wind data tailored for various sectors.
