Satellites Can Help Predict Bridge Collapses by Spotting Tiny Changes, Thanks to Scientist’s Solution

Satellites Can Help Predict Bridge Collapses by Spotting Tiny Changes, Thanks to Scientist’s Solution

Why this story matters: Amidst the constant noise of the modern world, it’s essential to pause and highlight the examples of human kindness and systemic progress that rarely receive the front-page attention they so richly deserve. Quick summary: This story highlights recent developments related to disasters, showing how constructive action can lead to meaningful results. The I-35W Mississippi River Bridge after its collapse – credit, Mike Wills CC 2.0. via Flickr A University of Houston scientist is helping reveal the world’s weakest bridges—and how to fix them before it’s too late. In a study of 744 bridges across the globe, an international team found that by combining radar and satellite imaging into risk calculations, engineers can identify which bridges are at risk of structural damage long before such damage occurs. Published in Nature Communications by lead author Pietro Milillo, the team says their method could close a significant gap in the understanding of the structural conditio…