BYU student helps enhance wind tracking tool for wildfires
PROVO, Utah () — A (BYU) student has used machine learning and math to improve a key tool that firefighters rely on while they are out in the field battling wildfires.
'I think it's really cool when you study math, you end up working on problems that you never would have really guessed, like I have done things in so many different fields,' Jane Housley is a BYU mathematics graduate student and a wildfire modeling researcher.
Housley recently wrapped up her master thesis in partnership with the and focused on improving WindNinja.
is used by fire crews and analysts to predict how wind will move through terrain during a fire. It is a simulation tool created by the Missoula Fire Sciences lab.
According to the , the behavior of wildland fires and the dispersion of smoke from these fires depends, in part, on ambient and fire-induced winds that work to spread fires across the landscape and mix fire emissions into the atmosphere.
Housley's study focused on improving the device to model what's called a cavity zone. That's the area directly behind a mountain or ridge where wind tends to swirl backward and create a whirlpool-like motion.
This movement can dramatically shift how and where a fire spreads.
Housley helped improve two key areas of the WindNinja, the mass-conserving solver and the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solver. The first one is fast but less accurate but on the other hand, CFD is more precise but much slower.
'This is the first time that we've taken machine learning and AI and applied it to the field of wildfire modeling. The real way to study this was to try and understand the physics and mechanics of how things work,' Housley told .
Through her research, Housley trained the neural network to learn patterns of error in the mass-conserving solver, using the CFD solver accuracy as the goal.
The device could now be able to recognize wind patterns the way facial recognition spots a familiar face. Housley said she still remembers the feeling of excitement when she saw how accurate and efficient her new model was.
'Once I had the network built and plugged in the data and ran the simulation, the results were really good. I thought, 'I must be doing something wrong,'' Housley said in a press release. 'I combed through every single line of code and found that it was working correctly. I was really excited.'
Collaborating with firefighters and scientists at the Missoula Fire Sciences Lab will be an experience that Housley says she will cherish forever.
Alexa Mcfadden contributed to this report.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Digital Trends
31 minutes ago
- Digital Trends
I tested a wild phone that Apple must copy to boost gaming on iPhones
About six months ago, I got my hands on a rather curious phone, one that packed more punch than top-shelf flagships, which cost nearly twice as much. The Red Magic 10 Pro is a beastly phone, but the company has now entered a ludicrous territory where it offers an overclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite silicon and improved thermals inside the Red Magic 10S Pro. After pushing the device for about two weeks, I've realized that it's not just a fantastic phone and a ridiculously good value at just $649. Instead, it serves as a template for what a top-tier phone should look like, especially one that sells the promise of top-notch performance even in the most demanding scenarios. Recommended Videos That brings me to Apple. Over the past couple of years, the company has made some major strides in the gaming segment, especially on mobile devices. Top-tier titles such as Death Stranding, Assassin's Creed Mirage, and Resident Evil Village have made their way to the iPhone. A studio of its own The Apple Arcade gallery is home to a rewarding bunch of titles, and more are yet to come. Yet, aside from launching a social-friendly Games app, the company hasn't done much to really catch the true spirit of gaming. That's a crucial miss, one where Red Magic has done a terrific job. My favorite aspect is the Red Magic Studio, which allows the phone to mirror its contents to a larger screen, somewhat like AirPlay. But if you ask any game enthusiast, wireless is not where the fun is at, thanks in no small part to latency. Red Magic knows that all too well and offers a seamless wired console experience. As soon as you connect your phone to a monitor, you get a dedicated game launcher UI where you can find all the native titles as well as your emulation bundles. No complex set-up required, at all. It's just plug and play. And yes, you get full support for controllers, keyboard, and mouse input. And here's the best part. When you connect to a large screen, the Red Magic 10S Pro's screen turns into a touchpad. So, for the rare occasions where the controller inputs can latch onto system-level pop-up windows, you can simply drag and tap on the phone's screen and handle the arrowhead cursor, which looks similar to the one on the iPad. All the titles are neatly catalogued on the home dashboard, and the gaming experience is fluid, as well. I had a lot of fun playing Diablo: Immortal and revisiting my PSP collection at the best possible graphics settings, and never ran into any blackouts or crashes that could mar the gaming experience. Customization and perks When Apple announced the Games app, I was hoping that the iPhone would finally get deep tuning and in-game customization tools. After all, the silicon fitted inside iPhones has remained a step ahead of what you get inside Android devices. Unfortunately, none of that materialized. Fortunately, Red Magic has got you covered. Notice that slider button on the side? It takes you straight into the Game Space, a dedicated system of its own solely for playing games. This is where you will find all your games, customize the controller layout, access gameplay capture, adjust fan activity, and separately tune the CPU and GPU power draw as per your needs. On the overclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite silicon inside the Red Magic 10S Pro, the CPU goes up to 4.47 GHz (compared to 4.23 GHz on the standard trim), while the Adreno GPU is also 30% beefier. For the latter, you can even choose the strength of anisotropic filtering, anti-aliasing, and texture filtering to get the best out of graphics-intensive games. Since the 144Hz OLED display offers a ridiculously high touch sampling rate of 960Hz for fast input in games, you can deeply customize the screen behavior, as well. You can adjust the sampling rate, sensitivity, slide response, and input stability. Moreover, depending on the on-screen control layout in games, you can also adjust the inactive area of the screen to prevent accidental touch input. You don't get any of that on iPhones. But that's just the surface of the deep customization tools you get on the Red Magic 10S Pro. If you take your mobile (and extended large screen) gaming seriously, there's a custom plug-in library to give you the extra edge. Here, you get access to plug-ins such as Hunt that invert the screen color briefly to find hidden enemies, scout mode for adding a zoom superpower within the crosshair, a high sensitivity movement wheel, 4D vibrations, and more. When you enter the game, you get a slide-out tray that provides access to performance modes and plug-ins on the left, and gameplay controls on the right. There are a lot of them, actually, and you can customize them further, just like the control center on iPhones. From changing call behavior to quickly launching your favorite apps in a small floating window, you get it all here. It's one of the deepest levels of in-game utility customization that I have ever seen on a mobile device, and it really makes a difference. Apple can — and should — bake deeper in-game controls and customizations within the Games app. And while at it, the company should also pay special attention to aspects such as button remapping, game presets, and hopefully, add a few performance plug-ins of its own. The secret hardware sauce The standout aspect of the Red Magic 10S Pro is the pair of capacitive shoulder trigger buttons on the right edge. With a 520Hz sampling rate, these buttons are blazing fast, but more than sheer speed, they make a tangible difference in the gameplay. From using them as brake and accelerator in racing games, to peek and shoot buttons in RGB games, they free your thumbs from the clutter of on-screen controls and offer a more console-like experience. These are freely customizable, and you can make adjustments even in the middle of gameplay. Using them almost feels like cheating, because these shoulder buttons really ease the in-game controls and boost the response time, as well. Interestingly, Apple put a similar capacitive button on the iPhone 16 Pro — the camera control — and Oppo has implemented it, too. Now, it's hard to imagine Apple putting two such buttons on its phones, but letting users at least customize it for games and get a physical shoulder button would be neat. It supports both press and slide gestures already, so there's some serious gaming potential here waiting to be exploited. As far as the rest of the package goes, the Red Magic 10S Pro is a beast. When was the last time you saw a phone with a physical RGB fan for cooling whirring at 23,000 RPM? Yeah, that's what you get on this one. Over at the front is a large 6.85-inch OLED screen with an under-display selfie camera, while a huge 7,050mAh battery keeps the lights on, with support for 80W charging in tow. It also offers up to 24GB of RAM, 1TB of super-fast UFS 4.1 storage, and a rewarding haptic motor for intense in-game vibration feedback. It's as good as a $650 phone gets, and then some more. You just need to make the leap and import one, preferably from one of the Red Magic warehouses closest to your location.
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
Detroit-based Mudita Venture Partners launches $125 million Fund II
06/25/2025, Detroit, Michigan // PRODIGY: Feature Story // Mudita Venture Fund II, a venture capital fund focusing on early-stage, business-to-business AI companies, completed its first close of $85 million toward its target of $125 million, with the remainder expected to close in the next 90 days. The fund is sponsored by Mudita Venture Partners ('Mudita'), founded by brothers Josh and Ethan Linkner. Through its sponsored funds, Mudita invents, invests in, and helps accelerate tech companies with the goal of driving economic results and leaving a positive social impact. 'The Sanskrit word 'Mudita' means to find great joy in other people's success,' said co-founder Ethan Linkner. 'Recognizing the good that successful companies can do in the world, our mandate is to drive both oversized investment returns while simultaneously elevating humanity.' Mudita Venture Fund II has an investment thesis similar to Mudita's first venture capital fund, which has built a portfolio of 23 companies pursuing groundbreaking technologies. 'We invest in and invent companies that leverage AI to deliver exponential boosts in productivity, scale, and impact,' said co-founder Josh Linkner. 'Taking a contrarian view, we prefer rigor over wild swings and focus on DeepHuman, not just DeepTech. We're not just financiers; we're business builders.' Along with the first closing, Mudita is announcing the addition of three new senior executives to the Mudita team: Mudita is also proud to announce the addition of four Operating Partners: 'With deeper resources and an expanded bench of world-class business builders, we embark on Fund II with both confidence and conviction,' commented Managing Partner Josh Tolman. 'We remain committed to playing an active role in driving meaningful performance for our portfolio entrepreneurs, investors, and the communities we serve.' About Mudita Venture Partners Mudita Venture Partners is an early-stage venture fund sponsor and advisor, primarily pursuing investments in business-to-business software companies that are post-revenue and pre-growth spurt. The Mudita team brings decades of entrepreneurial and operational experience to help accelerate growth and mitigate risk. Mudita only pursues investments for its funds in companies it believes will have both a positive impact on the world and drive meaningful economic returns. Mudita Studios Mudita Studios is a Mudita-affiliated venture studio, focused on inventing the next generation of disruptive technologies that can be launched as stand-alone businesses. It serves as an innovation laboratory for venture funds and corporate clients, streamlining the innovation process while applying rigorous systems and standards to enable the highest probability of new venture success. For more information about Mudita, its mission, its studio, and its portfolio, please visit Disclaimer This press release is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be, nor should it be construed or relied on in any manner as, legal, tax, financial or investment advice, and should not be used as the basis for any investment decision. Nothing contained herein constitutes an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation for, any security of any investment product, service or vehicle sponsored by Mudita, including the vehicles referenced herein (each, a 'Fund'). Any such offer or solicitation may only be made pursuant to such Fund's definitive confidential private placement memorandum and related subscription documents, which will be furnished to qualified investors on a confidential basis, and otherwise in accordance with applicable securities laws. References to any current portfolio investment and future portfolio company launches are intended solely to illustrate the application of a Fund's investment process and should not be used as a basis for making any decision about purchasing, holding, or selling any securities. Nothing herein shall be interpreted or used in any manner as investment advice. The information provided about these portfolio investments and portfolio companies is intended to be illustrative only and should not be relied upon as an indication of a Fund's current or future investment performance. The performance of any Fund's portfolio investments discussed herein is not necessarily indicative of, and may differ materially from, the performance of any other Fund's portfolio investments. No assumption should be made that any future investments will be profitable or achieve results comparable to past portfolio investments. Certain statements contained in this press release constitute 'forward-looking statements.' These statements are predictive in nature and can be identified by words such as 'believe,' 'expect,' 'goal,' 'target,' 'will,' and other variations thereon and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Such statements are based on Mudita's current views, beliefs, expectations, and assumptions regarding future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, market conditions, and other factors. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict, many of which are beyond our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in these forward-looking statements. Therefore, reliance should not be placed on any forward-looking statements contained in this press release, which are based only on information available to Mudita and speak only as of the date hereof. Mudita expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update, revise or supplement any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law. Media Contact Full Name: Josh Linkner Title: Managing Partner and Co-Founder Company Name: Mudita Email: [email protected] Phone Number: 248.760.1398 Website: Source published by Submit Press Release >> Detroit-based Mudita Venture Partners launches $125 million Fund II
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
Chain Trade Exchange: Pioneering the Future of Global Crypto Trading
06/25/2025, Denver, Co // PRODIGY: Feature Story // As blockchain technology advances rapidly, cryptocurrencies have become a cornerstone of the global digital economy. From the rise of Bitcoin to the booming growth of decentralized finance (DeFi), digital assets are reshaping wealth management and trading. Amid this wave, Chain Trade Exchange, with its innovative technology and user-first philosophy, has emerged as a global leader in cryptocurrency trading platforms. This article explores how Chain Trade has earned the trust of 150 million users through exceptional service, security, and compliance, establishing itself as the go-to platform for digital asset trading. A Leader in the Digital Asset Era Since Bitcoin's debut in 2009, the cryptocurrency market has seen explosive growth. Industry data shows that global crypto users now exceed 400 million, with trading platforms serving as the vital link between users and digital assets. However, fierce market competition has raised user expectations for security, fee transparency, and platform reliability. Founded in 2019 in Denver, Colorado, Chain Trade has distinguished itself with its global vision and technological innovation. Chain Trade currently serves over 180 countries, boasts 150 million registered users, and supports trading for more than 350 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and emerging altcoins. Its low trading fees and intuitive interface make it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned traders. 'Our mission is to make the digital economy accessible to everyone,' a Chain Trade spokesperson said. 'We are committed to delivering a secure, convenient, and efficient trading experience.' Unmatched Security Standards Security remains a top concern for cryptocurrency traders. Chain Trade employs industry-leading security measures, including multi-signature wallets, cold storage solutions (protecting over 90% of assets), and real-time network threat monitoring. A dedicated security team operates 24/7 to safeguard user accounts and assets from cyberattacks. Additionally, Chain Trade conducts regular independent Proof of Reserves (PoR) audits, publicly verifying that all user assets are fully backed 1:1, setting a benchmark for transparency in the industry. 'Chain Trade's security measures give me peace of mind,' shared a user from Asia. 'Their clear and transparent Proof of Reserves reports instill confidence in the platform.' This commitment to security has earned Chain Trade a strong reputation among global users. Diverse Services for Global Needs Chain Trade offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to the diverse needs of individual and institutional users: • Spot Trading: Supports hundreds of trading pairs with fast order execution, ideal for both short- and long-term strategies.• Wealth Management Products: Users can earn interest on their cryptocurrencies, generating passive income.• Wallet Services: Provides secure hot and cold wallets for safe storage, supporting multiple currencies.• Blockchain Consulting: Offers expert guidance for businesses to optimize processes and drive digital transformation. The platform's mobile app and multilingual support enhance accessibility, enabling users worldwide to manage assets anytime, anywhere. Whether exploring DeFi opportunities or engaging in high-frequency trading, Chain Trade equips users with flexible tools and resources. A Model of Compliance and Transparency In an increasingly regulated crypto industry, compliance is the foundation of sustainable growth. Chain Trade adheres to robust anti-money laundering (AML) protocols, implementing strict identity verification and risk assessments for all users, alongside real-time transaction monitoring to detect suspicious activity. The platform regularly submits suspicious transaction reports to regulators and collaborates with international law enforcement to ensure compliance with global laws. 'Compliance and transparency are core to Chain Trade's values,' the spokesperson emphasized. 'We not only protect user assets but also strive to build a fair and trustworthy environment for the digital economy.' This dedication to compliance has earned Chain Trade recognition from both regulators and users worldwide. Chain Trade's Unique Strengths Chain Trade's success stems from its core advantages: • Global Reach: Serving over 180 countries with 150 million users, meeting diverse market demands.• Low-Cost Trading: Competitive fee structure reduces user trading costs.• Top-Tier Security: Advanced technology, a dedicated security team, and Proof of Reserves ensure asset safety.• Comprehensive Features: Spot trading, wealth management, wallets, and consulting cover all use cases.• Compliance and Transparency: Strict AML measures and regulatory cooperation build user trust. Shaping the Future of the Digital Economy As blockchain technology continues to evolve, Chain Trade plans to expand its offerings further. The platform aims to introduce innovative products, including DeFi integrations, an NFT marketplace, and enterprise-grade blockchain solutions, to create greater value for users and businesses. 'We believe cryptocurrencies and blockchain will reshape the global economy,' the Chain Trade spokesperson said. 'We aspire to lead this transformation.' Join Chain Trade and Embark on Your Digital Wealth Journey For those seeking a secure, reliable, and efficient trading platform, Chain Trade is an unmissable choice. Whether you're new to cryptocurrencies or an experienced investor, Chain Trade offers tailored solutions to meet your needs. Contact [email protected] or visit the official website to explore the limitless possibilities of digital assets. About Chain Trade Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Chain Trade Exchange specializes in cryptocurrency trading, wallet services, and blockchain consulting. As a leading global digital asset platform, Chain Trade serves over 180 countries and 150 million users, driving the advancement of the digital economy. Media Contact Chain Trade Public Relations Location: Denver, Colorado Contact: Jacob Maurice Email: [email protected] Website: published by Submit Press Release >> Chain Trade Exchange: Pioneering the Future of Global Crypto Trading
