Globos para mejorar el vino en Italia

Italian scientists are using balloons, polystyrene boxes, and adhesive tape to improve wine production. They install sensors in vineyards to collect environmental and climate data, which is sent to a distant antenna via balloons. This agrometeorological approach can reduce chemical treatments, though some small producers are hesitant to invest. Each sensor costs about 100 euros, and two are needed per hectare. A user-friendly platform is being developed for producers to access data. Tests will be conducted in eight vineyards this year, with plans to expand next year. Balloons will be refueled monthly with helium.

What materials are being used by the scientists to enhance wine production?

• A satellite, a plastic box, and magnets

• A kite, a wooden box, and string

• A drone, a metal box, and glue

• A balloon, a polystyrene box, and adhesive tape

How do the sensors communicate the data they collect?

• Directly to a smartphone app

• Using a ground-based radio tower

• Through a satellite network

• Via a balloon carrying an antenna

What is one of the advantages of using agrometeorology in vineyards?

• It lowers the cost of labor

• It speeds up the fermentation process

• It helps reduce chemical treatments

• It increases the size of the grapes

What is the estimated cost of each sensor used in the vineyards?

• 50 euros

• 200 euros

• 100 euros

• 150 euros

How often are the balloons refueled with helium?

• Once a week

• Twice a month

• Every two months

• Once a month