At the 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona, groundbreaking lidar technology is being used to “see the wind,” revolutionizing how sailing is broadcast. Capgemini’s WindSight IQ combines lidar sensors and advanced algorithms to create a real-time wind map of the racecourse, revealing gusts and pressure zones to viewers.
Lidar sensors scan the race area from the Barcelona waterfront, measuring wind speed and direction with remarkable accuracy. The data is combined with inputs from yachts and buoys, allowing WindSight IQ to generate a continuously updated wind field. This information is used to create augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) graphics, enabling spectators to visualize the wind’s impact on the race.
For broadcasters, visualizing wind has been a long-sought goal, and lidar has finally made it possible. The technology enables fans to better understand yacht strategies, as they can see where teams should sail to catch the most favorable winds. WindSight IQ, integrated into broadcast graphics, enhances the viewing experience by offering a clear picture of the wind dynamics that can make or break a race.
As lidar and AR technology continue to evolve, the America’s Cup sets a new standard for live sports broadcasting, making the invisible forces of nature visible and accessible to everyone.
The America’s Cup is the world’s oldest international sailing competition, first contested in 1851. Originally known as the Royal Yacht Squadron’s 100 Guinea Cup, it was won by the schooner *America*, representing the New York Yacht Club. The trophy was renamed the America’s Cup in honor of the winning vessel. Over the years, the competition has evolved into a prestigious and high-tech event, featuring cutting-edge yacht designs and fierce international rivalries. Held roughly every few years, the America’s Cup remains a symbol of sailing innovation and a coveted prize in the sport.
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