Plain English Meaning

Weather readings taken high in the sky, not on the ground. Instruments are usually carried up by balloons to measure the air at different heights.

Full Definition

Measurements of atmospheric conditions taken above the surface, typically using radiosondes carried aloft by weather balloons, which transmit data on temperature, humidity, pressure, and winds at various altitudes as they rise through the atmosphere.

Context Anchor

Seen in aviation weather discussions, especially when learning how weather data is collected and how winds and temperatures change with height.