Tag: #weather

Canyon Launches Jacky SW-69 Smartwatch for the Irish Market

Canyon has announced the availability of the Canyon Smart Watch Jacky SW-69 White & Blue, a stylish and feature-packed wearable designed to support everyday wellness, fitness tracking and smart connectivity for Irish consumers.
Blending a modern aesthetic with practical functionality, the Jacky SW-69 features a vibrant 1.3-inch LTPS touchscreen display with a sharp 360 × 360 resolution, delivering clear visuals for both indoor and outdoor use. Its white and blue colourway offers a fresh, contemporary look suited to work, workouts and leisure.
Health & Fitness at Your Fingertips
Designed to support an active lifestyle, the Jacky SW-69 provides continuous monitoring of heart rate, blood oxygen levels and body temperature, helping users stay informed about their wellbeing throughout the day. With 25 built-in sport modes, including walking, running, cycling, yoga and swimming, the smartwatch enables personalised activity tracking with detailed insights into steps, calories burned and distance covered.
The device also includes sleep tracking, stress monitoring and guided breathing exercises, promoting a more balanced approach to health and wellness.
Smart Features for Everyday Life
The Jacky SW-69 keeps users connected with smart notifications for calls, messages and app alerts, delivered directly to the wrist. Additional features include music and camera control, weather updates, hydration reminders, calculator, stopwatch and a virtual business card, making it a practical companion for daily routines.
The smartwatch is compatible with Android and iOS devices, ensuring a seamless pairing experience across platforms.
Durable Design with Long Battery Life
Built to handle daily wear, the Jacky SW-69 is IP68 water-resistant, offering protection against water splashes, rain and sweat. Its long-lasting battery delivers up to 9 days of typical use and up to 15 days on standby, minimising downtime between charges.
Availability
The Canyon Smart Watch Jacky SW-69 White & Blue is available now in Ireland from Vodafone Friends & Family online.
RRP 59.00 EURO – BUY
We will have a review soon so stay tuned

HAYLOU Solar Lite 2 Smartwatch Review

The Haylou Solar Lite 2 is a major leap forward from its predecessor, shifting from a budget “basic” tracker to a more premium-feeling smartwatch. While the original Solar Lite was known for its simplicity and TFT screen, the Solar Lite 2 introduces a vibrant AMOLED display and Bluetooth calling while maintaining a sleek profile.

Having tested many watches in this price bracket the Solar lite 2 comes pack with more features than others at this pricepoint giving it a more favourable look of others and like many watches in this price tier they do not offer bluetooth calling where the Haylou Solar Lite 2 does which is a sought feature for those on a budget.

Haylou’s main pitch for the Solar Lite 2 is its 9.8mm ultra-thin design. It feels noticeably lighter and less bulky on the wrist than most competitors in this price bracket.

It features a high-gloss polished zinc alloy frame that gives it a more “executive” look compared to the matte plastic feel of the first generation.

It has been upgraded to 1ATM, meaning it handles splashes and rain much better, though it is still not a dedicated deep-diving watch.

The display  is the star of the show here. with a 1.43-inch AMOLED: Moving away from the 240×240 TFT of the original, the Solar Lite 2 features a 466×466 resolution with a 60Hz refresh rate. It is fast an smooth.

Colors are punchy, and the blacks are deep. It also supports Always-On Display (AOD), which was a major missing feature in previous “Lite” models.

Key Features & Performance

  • Bluetooth Calling: You can now make and receive calls directly from your wrist. The speaker is surprisingly clear for the price, though it struggles in windy outdoor environments.

  • Health Tracking: It utilizes a new self-developed algorithm for more accurate heart rate and $SpO_2$ monitoring. It also includes 24/7 stress tracking and female health management.

  • Fitness: With over 150 sports modes (up from 100), it covers almost any activity. It also syncs directly with Strava, which is a huge win for runners and cyclists who don’t want to be locked into the Haylou Fun app.

Battery Life

Despite the power-hungry AMOLED screen, Haylou has optimized the battery system:

  • Typical Use: ~12 days.

  • Heavy Use (AOD on, frequent calls): ~5–7 days.

  • Extended Battery Mode: Up to 30 days.

Is it worth it?

At roughly 40 euro, the Haylou Solar Lite 2 is one of the best value-for-money smartwatches on the market right now. It looks and feels like a watch twice its price. If you don’t need onboard GPS for running, this is a near-perfect daily driver.

Haylou Fun App

 

  • Slim Design That Feels Weightless

With a slim 9.8mm profile and a carefully balanced structure, Solar Lite 2 is designed to feel natural on the wrist from morning to night.The lightweight form minimizes physical and visual presence, allowing the watch to blend seamlessly into workouts, commutes, and relaxed moments.From the soft-touch strap to the overall ergonomics, every detail is shaped to reduce pressure, heat buildup, and distraction — so comfort stays effortless throughout the day.

 

  • A Display That Stays Clear, Indoors and Out

HAYLOU Solar Lite 2 features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display with a sharp 466×466 resolution and smooth high refresh rate, delivering vivid colors and refined details at a glance.Even under bright outdoor sunlight, users can easily read notifications, check data, and enjoy watch faces with exceptional clarity.

 

  • Sleep Smarter, Feel Better

Solar Lite 2 includes a sleep scoring feature designed to support everyday awareness of sleep habits.By offering simple feedback, it encourages users to pay more attention to rest and recovery.

 

Designed for everyday freedom, Solar Lite 2 delivers up to 17 days of battery life on a single charge, minimizing interruptions and reducing the need for frequent charging.With support for over 150 sports modes and 1ATM water resistance, it adapts easily to workouts, changing weather, and daily activities such as handwashing or light rain.Together, these features allow users to stay focused on movement, routine, and rest — without adjusting their day around the watch.

Smartwatch Essentials: HAYLOU Solar Lite 2

Product Type: Slim smartwatch for everyday wear

Design:9.8mm slim minimalist design

Display:1.43″ AMOLED display, 466×466 resolution

Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4

Battery Life:Up to 17 days

Sports Modes:150 sports modes

Health Features:Sleep scoring and sleep stage analysis

Water Resistance: 1ATM

BUY

Other HAYLOU Reviews

Video Review

Are Inflatable Tents Right for Your Brand? Pros, Cons, and Use Cases

When it comes to trade shows or outdoor exhibitions, style and function go hand in hand. Today’s brands are looking for event solutions that provide a de-risking balance of visibility, functionality, transportability, and versatility. Inflatable tents are becoming a more viable alternative to traditional tent structures, as they offer specific advantages in setup time, transportability, and design configurations. Inflatable tents can help to improve brand visibility and engagement, whether you are using them for corporate promotions, product launches, community events, etc. Other brands that are using custom tents are also interested in inflatable tents as part of their event plan because of the synergies of style and function.

As inflatable tent technology becomes more mainstream, many companies are asking the same basic question: Are inflatable tents right for my brand? Answering this question involves understanding the pros and cons of inflatable tents and having an understanding of proper understanding across industrial applications.

Weighing the Pros, Cons, and Ideal Uses of Inflatable Tents

 

  • Portability and Ease of Setup for Efficient Food Vendor Tent Setup

Inflatable tents have become a contender to metal frame tents; however, inflatable tents are quicker and easier to set up, as they can be inflated by one or two people quickly. They are inherently appropriate for mobile events, pop-up activations, and temporary setups. In the food vendor tent setup example, this ease of configuration is important. Food vendors work in inherently small kiosks, and time is critical. The speed at which food vendors can inflate and deflate tents allows them to serve customers on time with little to no wait time. Lastly, they can be rolled into a small bag, making it easier and less expensive to transport them. It is especially true for traveling bands/brands and touring promotions.

  • Visual Appeal and Brand Visibility

Inflatable tents provide an impactful visual display straight away. The silky-looking, curve-shaped, customizable surfaces ensure the brand’s identity pops above rows of basic structures. They can be printed in high definition with logos, patterns, or thematic graphics to help attract the eye even from a distance.

Due to their contemporary appeal and flexibility, inflatable tents can complement various brand identities—from chic and corporate to bold and fun. The versatility of inflatable tents also lends their design to creative lighting solutions, including internal LEDs, that can transform an inflatable tent into a glowing beacon on the trade show floor, attracting foot traffic toward the booth. When there are dozens of competitors vying to capture the attention of consumers at trade shows or festivals, visual impact is the difference between lasting impressions and being overlooked.

  • Durability and Weather Resistance

Inflatable tents may be lightweight but are built from tough, weatherproof material such as armor PVC or polyester. These materials are designed to resist wind, light rain, and sunlight without becoming distorted in shape or fading in color. The internal air beams replace metal poles, tolerate pressure evenly, and deter collapse after being under duress.

Properly inflating and storing, while checking for punctures or leaks periodically, is key to their longer utility. Inflatable tents are strong enough for regular outdoor use, but especially in severe storms or with sharp objects, there is some concern. For brands that conduct outdoor events regularly, a higher-grade commercial tent can be helpful. Along with that, secure and effective professional methods can help set up your inflatable tent with confidence.

  • Sustainability and Reusability

With a focus on sustainability in business, event planners and exhibitors are examining the materials they select. Inflatable tents are perfect for an eco-conscious worldview, as they are reusable and create less waste. Where traditional tents are generally disposed of after a single use, inflatable tents can be utilized again and again for each event, decreasing the need for single-use and replacement materials.

Inflatable tents also have a lighter footprint in terms of transport. Their lighter weight uses fewer resources to ship to the event, as well as for setup. So for organizations that want to advance a cleaner, greener event, a sustainable setup using efficiencies can further a positive brand experience. Inflatable tents also use less material than custom tents, and as such, they take less energy for production, as well as to transport and store.

  • Cost Considerations and Suitability for Different Brands

Although pricing differs based on the size and quality of inflatable tents, they are usually a long-term investment, and owing to their durability and reusability, they result in cost savings. Besides, less hardware, labor, and transport costs make these inflatable tents able to be rigidly fit, which enables tighter transport.

That said, inflatable tents may not be appropriate for every brand or event. For instance, an organization that has multi-day exhibits or activations in a busy, high-traffic area of a market will typically prefer the traditional framed tent, as it provides a rigid structure and more design options with the inner space. That said, inflatable tents are exceptionally helpful in duration-preferred or outdoor festival activations, or experiential marketing events.

End Point

Inflatable tents offer brands a contemporary, adaptable, and visually striking solution for portable event structures. The simple setup process, visual identity, and sustainability possibilities make them a useful tool for a dynamic marketing plan. Before deciding on this option, brands should think about their event needs, budget, and environmental considerations. Whether alongside custom tents or standalone structures, inflatable tents highlight how innovative design can be used to re-establish brand presence, function, efficiency, and visual storytelling that now live together under an air-filled roof.

DIY cameras vs professional CCTV installation: The most common mistakes people only notice after a break-in.

In an era where home security is more accessible than ever before, many homeowners are turning to DIY camera systems as an affordable and quick way to protect their property. With online tutorials and affordable kits readily available, it can be tempting to forgo professional installation and handle the setup yourself. However, the harsh reality often only sets in after a security breach, when footage reveals critical flaws that could have been avoided. This article explores the most common pitfalls of DIY cameras compared to professional CCTV installation and offers advice to help consumers make informed decisions. We’ll delve into issues such as improper camera angles, night-time glare from headlights, lack of backup power and incessant false motion alerts — mistakes that leave many regretting their choices after an incident occurs.

The appeal of DIY cameras lies in their simplicity and affordability. Brands such as Ring, Nest and Arlo offer straightforward installation, wireless options, app integration and cloud storage. For under £150, you can have a basic setup to monitor your front door or backyard. However, as security experts often point out, these systems are designed for convenience rather than comprehensive protection. Professional CCTV installation, on the other hand, involves certified technicians assessing your property’s unique vulnerabilities and providing tailored planning. This approach ensures coverage that DIY kits rarely achieve, transforming a reactive gadget into a proactive defence.

Common mistakes in DIY camera setups

Wrong camera angle: Missing crucial details.

One of the most common mistakes when setting up DIY cameras is choosing the wrong angle, which often results in footage that cannot identify faces or details. Homeowners typically mount cameras too high or too low, pointing them towards the ground or sky instead of towards key entry points. For example, a downward-facing camera might capture a burglar’s feet but miss their face entirely. This issue stems from a lack of understanding of field of view (FOV) and focal lengths. DIY kits often have fixed lenses that cannot be adjusted for different distances, resulting in distorted or incomplete images.

Consider the following real-world scenario: a family installs a DIY camera above their garage door, assuming that it provides adequate coverage of the driveway. During a break-in, however, the intruder approaches from the side and the camera only records a shadowy figure, making it impossible to identify them. When the police arrive, the footage is useless for identification purposes. Professional CCTV installation can address this issue by using adjustable mounts and lenses optimised for specific angles. Technicians calculate the optimal height — usually 8–10 feet — to capture faces while deterring tampering. They also use wide-angle or varifocal lenses to cover blind spots and ensure that every frame is of an evidential standard.

Headlight glare at night: Blinding the Lens

In addition to angles, lighting is crucial for effective camera use, and headlight glare at night is a common issue for DIY setups. Many budget cameras lack infrared (IR) cut filters or adequate low-light sensors, which can cause overexposure when car headlights or streetlights hit the lens. This results in footage that is washed out, with details lost in a sea of white light. Users often only discover this flaw after reviewing post-break-in videos and realising that the glare rendered the system ineffective during the hours when intrusions are most likely to occur.

For example, imagine parking your car in the driveway at night. The headlights will beam directly into the camera, creating a blinding effect. Intruders could exploit this by timing their approach to coincide with vehicle traffic. Professional CCTV installation mitigates this glare by placing the cameras away from direct light sources and using anti-glare coatings or hooded enclosures. Furthermore, professionals integrate cameras with smart lighting systems that only activate when needed, thereby reducing reflective interference. A proper CCTV installation takes into account lighting, mounting height, reflective surfaces and storage — things that cheap DIY kits never explain.

No backup power: system failure during outages

Another critical oversight in DIY systems is the lack of a backup power supply, which leaves the setup vulnerable if the mains are cut. Most wireless cameras rely on household electricity or quickly draining batteries, particularly in cold weather. Burglars are aware of this weakness and often target power lines or breakers first, disabling the entire system in seconds. It is only after an incident that homeowners notice this fatal flaw, when they find their cameras offline during the crucial moments.

For example, a suburban homeowner might equip their home with battery-powered DIY cameras, assuming they are foolproof. However, if a thief cuts the power, the cameras, which do not have uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), shut down immediately. There are no alerts or recordings — just silence. In contrast, professional CCTV installations include redundant power sources such as solar backups, generators or hardwired batteries, which keep the system running for hours or even days. This ensures continuous operation, even during outages, providing a level of peace of mind that DIY options simply cannot match.

False motion alerts: Alert fatigue caused by spiders and rain.

Perhaps the most frustrating mistake is false motion alerts, with systems triggering 200 times a night due to spiders, rain, or wind. DIY cameras use basic passive infrared (PIR) sensors that detect any heat or movement, resulting in constant notifications from non-threats such as animals, insects, or weather changes. This ‘alert fatigue’ causes users to ignore genuine warnings, thus defeating the object of the system.

Imagine this: you’re repeatedly woken by your phone buzzing over a spider’s web fluttering in the breeze or raindrops on the lens. Over time, you tune out the alerts and fail to notice a real intruder. Post-break-in reviews often reveal that the system did detect the event, but it was obscured by hundreds of false positives. Professional CCTV installation uses advanced analytics, such as AI-driven motion detection, to distinguish between humans, vehicles and animals. Technicians calibrate sensitivity levels and use weatherproof housings to minimise environmental triggers, resulting in reliable alerts without the noise.

Additional considerations

While these mistakes highlight the limitations of DIY, it’s worth noting that not all professional installations are equal. It is crucial to choose a reputable installer — look for certifications from bodies such as the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) or similar organisations in your region. They conduct site surveys to identify potential issues, such as overgrown foliage obstructing views or weak Wi-Fi signals causing dropouts. DIY users often overlook such issues, which can lead to intermittent connectivity that fails during emergencies.

Cost comparison: Initial savings vs. long-term value

Cost is one of the main factors in the debate between DIY and professional services. While initial outlays for DIY might be $100–500, hidden expenses such as cloud storage subscriptions ($3–10 per month) can add up. Professional CCTV installation, starting at $1,000–$5,000, includes warranties, maintenance and integration with alarms or smart home systems. In the long term, this investment pays off in terms of reliability and deterrence: studies show that professionally installed systems reduce the risk of burglary by up to 300% compared to unmonitored DIY systems.

Privacy concerns: Data security risks

Privacy concerns also differ. If not secured properly, DIY cameras, which are often cloud-based, risk data breaches. For example, hackers have exploited weak passwords on devices such as Wyze cameras, leading to unauthorised access. In contrast, professionals prioritise encrypted local storage and GDPR-compliant practices to safeguard your footage.

Maintenance: Ensuring Longevity

Maintenance is another area where DIY falls short. Issues such as dust, weather or software glitches can degrade performance, and without regular checks, problems can go unnoticed until it is too late. Professional services provide ongoing support to ensure that lenses are clean, firmware is up to date, and components are functioning correctly.

Tips for avoiding common pitfalls

To avoid these pitfalls, start by conducting a self-audit: map your property’s entry points, assess the lighting conditions and consider any potential vulnerabilities in your power supply. If you prefer a DIY approach, choose wired over wireless options for greater stability and invest in quality accessories such as surge protectors. However, for comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult experts.

In summary, while DIY cameras provide an entry-level security solution, common mistakes such as incorrect positioning, glare, lack of backups and false alerts often only become apparent after a break-in, leaving homeowners vulnerable. Professional CCTV installation provides a robust alternative by blending technology with expertise to ensure true protection. Remember, security isn’t just about having cameras; it’s about having ones that work when it matters most.

A proper CCTV installation takes into account lighting, mounting height, reflective surfaces and storage — things that cheap DIY kits never explain. This highlights the importance of expertise over expediency.

Advanced features and real-world insights

Moving on to advanced features, professional systems often include 4K resolution, PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) capabilities and integration with access control systems, which DIY solutions rarely support effectively. This scalability is crucial for businesses, but it also enhances deterrence for homes.

There are plenty of user testimonials: one Reddit user shared how their DIY setup failed due to glare, while a professionally installed system on a neighbour’s property captured clear evidence that led to an arrest. Forums such as HomeSecurityAdvice emphasise the importance of planning over plug-and-play solutions.

Environmental factors: Adapting to conditions

Environmental factors can exacerbate DIY issues. In rainy climates, for example, water ingress can cause short circuits, but professionals use IP67-rated enclosures. In urban areas, interference from neighbouring Wi-Fi networks can disrupt signals, whereas professional wired setups remain immune.

Legal implications: Evidentiary quality

Legally speaking, blurry DIY footage may not be admissible in court due to the lack of timestamps and chain-of-custody verification that professionals provide.

Budgeting and future-proofing.

Budget wisely and allocate funds for future-proofing. DIY might save money initially, but could end up costing more in replacements after failures.

Ultimately, it comes down to your risk tolerance. If you’re tech-savvy and monitoring low-risk areas, a DIY solution is sufficient. However, for high-stakes security, professional CCTV installation is essential.

A proper CCTV installation takes into account lighting, mounting height, reflective surfaces and storage — things that cheap DIY kits never explain. This highlights the educational gap in consumer products.

In conclusion, familiarise yourself with these common mistakes to avoid any regrets after a break-in. Whether you’re upgrading DIY or going pro, making informed choices will fortify your home.

Galway’s Severe Weather Tech Goes National

Galway County Council and Galway Fire and Rescue Service have been recognised for leadership in emergency technology after their Severe Weather Event Management System (SWEMS) proved instrumental during Storm Eowyn and was recently showcased by Government as part of its storm review.

The local authority received the Best Local Government Authority Project Award at the 2025 Business Post Public Sector Digital Transformation Awards, held at the Mansion House in Dublin.

Developed in-house by Galway County Council and built on the ESRI ArcGIS platform, SWEMS provides emergency teams with a live, interactive map of severe weather events, enabling faster and more informed decision-making. The system also connects to public-facing platforms, including social media and a text alert service, giving residents real-time updates as conditions change.

“Up to now there has been a lag getting information, and we found we were behind the curve straight away,” said Paul Duffy, Senior Assistant Chief Fire Officer. “This system means all our information is there in front of us. From an organisational point of view, hours could be saved during severe weather and wildfire events.”

He continued, “The award recognises exceptional innovation in digital public service delivery, particularly in the face of increasingly frequent and severe weather events. With national rollout now underway, the SWEMS team is proud that our technology is set to redefine how Ireland prepares for and responds to climate-driven emergencies.”

Michelle Hennelly, Senior Assistant Chief Fire Officer, confirmed that the system was recently demonstrated to the Department of Climate, Energy and Environment (DCEE) as part of its storm review. She also highlighted a multi-county exercise led by Galway at the National Emergency Coordination Centre (NECC), involving eight local authorities and coordinated by the Office of Emergency Planning (OEP) under the Department of Defence.

“The exercise showed that SWEMS could be scaled across counties and departments with minimal cost,” Ms Hennelly added.

Project Lead Mackenzie Boland, from the council’s Geographical Information Systems (GIS) team, said SWEMS now underpins severe weather response for both Galway County and City Councils, supporting assessment teams and frontline crews alike.

Hennelly extended thanks to Michael Martin, Head of Information Systems at Galway County Council, and Barry Doyle, former GIS Lead, for their support throughout the project.

Garmin launches first microLED watch and brings inReach to your wrist

Garmin  is advancing the future of smartwatch technology with the introduction of fēnix® 8 Pro series. These premium GPS smartwatches are the first to feature inReach technology for satellite and cellular connectivity—letting athletes and adventurers leave their phone behind and still stay in touch. Further revolutionising the smartwatch industry, fēnix 8 Pro – MicroLED introduces a first-of-its-kind, high-resolution MicroLED display for superior readability.

“fēnix 8 Pro is changing the game for smartwatches. This new lineup is full of breakthrough innovations, bringing life-changing inReach technology to the wrist to help keep athletes and adventurers in touch with their family and friends and introducing the first-ever ultra-bright MicroLED display to a smartwatch so users can see their maps, stats, health and wellness metrics and more like never before.”

—Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing

Leave the phone behind and still stay connected

Designed for those pursuits that make it impractical to carry a phone, fēnix 8 Pro has built-in inReach technology for satellite and cellular connectivity.

Satellite connectivity

fēnix 8 Pro uses inReach technology to let explorers exchange messages and send location check-ins.

  • Text messages: Send and receive text messages with those using the Garmin Messenger™ app on their smartphone or compatible Garmin smartwatch.
  • Location check-ins: Send location updates to family and friends so they can keep track of trip progress.

Cellular connectivity

In addition to sending text messages or providing location check-ins, fēnix 8 Pro can be used to make phone calls, send voice messages, share LiveTrack links and view weather forecasts when connected to the LTE network.

  • Voice calls: Make and take voice calls from the watch with other fēnix 8 Pro users or those using the Garmin Messenger app on their smartphone.
  • Voice messages: Check in with family and friends by exchanging 30-second voice messages. Recipients can listen to the messages or read the transcriptions on their watch or in the Garmin Messenger app.
  • LiveTrack: Friends and family can follow the adventures with LiveTrack location sharing and location check-ins on their smartphone. Users can also alert their friends and family when a LiveTrack session has started, in case they want to follow along or reach out during an activity.
  • Weather forecasts: Access current weather conditions and multiday forecasts to stay prepared for what’s ahead.

SOS capability supported by Garmin Response

When an SOS is triggered, fēnix 8 Pro will send a message over satellite or cellular connectivity to the Garmin Response℠ center, where a dedicated team of skilled emergency response coordinators are ready at any time. From there, Garmin Response will communicate with the user, their listed emergency contacts, search and rescue organisations and other available local resources. They provide updates to users and emergency contacts on the response effort, including confirmation when help is on the way, and remain available as the incident is being resolved. With nearly two decades of experience, the Garmin Response team has supported more than 17,000 inReach incident responses in more than 150 countries on all seven continents.

First-of-its-kind MicroLED display

Offering remarkable brightness in exquisite detail, fēnix 8 Pro – MicroLED features over 400,000 individual LEDs delivering up to 4,500 nits, making it the brightest smartwatch ever. The result is a revolutionary display that produces rich colors and high pixel densities with wide viewing angles and superior readability—even in direct sunlight.

Rugged design, premium features

Made for any adventure, all fēnix 8 Pro models are dive-rated and feature leakproof metal buttons, a metal sensor guard cover, AMOLED or MicroLED touchscreen displays and titanium bezels, plus an LED flashlight for greater visibility in dark environments.

Built for wherever the adventure leads, fēnix 8 Pro is loaded with Garmin’s full suite of performance, navigation, health and wellness2, and connected features, including endurance score, hill score, daily suggested workouts, preloaded TopoActive Maps, dynamic round-trip routing, the Garmin ECG App3, sleep coach, Garmin Pay™, safety and tracking features and more. To learn more, visit https://www.garmin.com/en-IE/.

LYNRED at the forefront of the next mission of Meteosat Third Generation Sounder

LYNRED, a global leader in infrared (IR) imaging technologies, announces that two completely new products, IRS MW-IR and LW-IR, have just been launched today by taking off to space. These two space qualified sensors are specifically designed for sounding applications within the infrared MWIR to VLWIR spectral range. They will play a crucial role in the Meteosat Third Generation Sounder mission (MTG-S1), that took off  from Cape Canaveral, Florida on July 1, 2025 at 5.03 p.m Eastern Day Time (11.03 p.m. Central European Time). The MTG-S1 satellite carries two key missions: the Infrared Sounder (IRS) and the Copernicus Sentinel-4 Ultraviolet-Visible-Near-Infrared light imaging spectrometer (UVN), now on their way to their positioning 36,000 km above Earth.

The MTG system is the most complex and innovative geostationary weather satellite system ever built. The main objective of the MTG-S (Sounder) mission is to enhance Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) capabilities at regional and global scales. The IRS will be the first European hyperspectral infrared sounder instrument in geostationary orbit.

Its predecessor, the Meteosat Second Generation (MSG), featured an IR imager only. The MTG-S1 however incorporates the innovative IRS sounder, equipped with two detectors: the LYNRED staring array IRS-MWIR and the LYNRED staring array IRS-LWIR (160 x 160 – 90μm pitch). This new generation of meteorological sounders utilizes cutting-edge infrared detectors developed as part of a world-class Earth observation program in collaboration with European partners, addressing major scientific and societal challenges.

 

Unprecedented performances for space sounding applications

The IRS detector, based on LYNRED‘s space-proven MCT technology, is a one of its kind worldwide regarding format and large spectral range with such a high cut-off wavelength, delivering exceptional performance for space sounding applications. Key features include:

  • A definition tailored for Fourier Transform Spectrometry (FTS) sounding applications and related InfraRed Instruments (FTIR).
  • A broad dynamic range suitable for the MWIR to VLWIR spectral range, extending up to 15μm.
  • Proven technology that meets stringent operability requirements up to 15μm.
  • High operability and outstanding radiometric performance (SNR).

The IRS is the first detector in the world to achieve this high resolution (160 x 160 – 90μm pitch) with an impressive spectral response cut-off wavelength of 15 µm.

The release of this advanced IR detector paves the way for developing a new generation of sounding instruments, offering enhanced performance, including improved spectral accuracy, higher ground resolution, and increased revisit frequency.

Philippe Chorier, Space Business Development Manager at LYNRED, stated: “The launch of the IRS satellite, equipped with the IRS MW and LW detectors, validates the availability of a new generation of IR detectors specifically designed for next-generation FTIR instruments in space sounding missions. This detector is truly unique worldwide, with characteristics such as format, pitch, dynamic range, spectral range and frame frequency that promise to usher in a new era of FTIR instrument capabilities for future sounding missions from 3 to 15 µm.”
More than 15 years of R&D led by the European Space Agency

LYNRED developed the IRS detector for both MW and LW bands in accordance with the specifications provided by Thales Alenia Space (France), responsible for the detection chain and overall satellite delivery. OHB-System (Germany) handled the instrument definition. This collaborative effort was managed by the European Space Agency (ESA), who oversees the space segment implementation of the MTG program for the benefit of EUMETSAT.

Sounding missions utilizing Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR) spectrometers require specialized infrared detectors capable of handling the unique demands of high-end space instruments. These include a wide dynamic range of flux across an extensive spectral range and the ability to operate at very high frame rates (typically exceeding a few kHz). Historically, constructing these instruments has been challenging due to the lack of suitable infrared detectors that meet the specific requirements.

Through the IRS MTG-S program, LYNRED has successfully developed a specialized IRS detector that meets the expectations of the addressed instruments, overcoming significant technical challenges to enable the design of FTIR spectrometers operating from 3 µm to 15 µm.

“We anticipate that the success of this collaboration will demonstrate the feasibility of a new generation of FTIR systems based on the IRS detectors developed for the IRS MTG-S program, with plans for these detectors to be utilized in numerous future sounding systems.” concluded Philippe Chorier.

 

A significant step ahead for climate monitoring

The IRS will offer a dynamic view of the atmosphere above the Earth. Scanning Europe every 30 minutes, it will collect vertical temperature and humidity profiles with unprecedented accuracy. The data will enhance forecasting of atmospheric instability, water vapor movement, and extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall, tropical cyclones, and winter storms.

The combination with imaging satellites will make it possible for the first time to observe the full lifecycle of a convective storm from space. It will revolutionize weather forecasting and climate monitoring in Europe, and beyond.

45% of Irish commuters stressed by their daily journey

KINTO Join – a provider of sustainable mobility applications – today reveals the findings of its survey which found that 45% of commuters in Ireland find their journey to work or university stressful.

The research – conducted by Censuswide and involving 1,000 people who commute to work or university in the Republic of Ireland – found that more than half (51%) have considered changing their commute method. However, 48% have never tried a different mode of transport for their commute.

Traffic delays and congestion were cited by 44% of commuters as one of their biggest frustrations. The other leading frustrations were fuel costs (30%), the time lost having to commute (30%), the weather (29%), and delays with services (15%).

Driving by car is the most popular primary mode of transport (51%) among commuters. However, only 16% prefer to travel this way. If available, the bus was the most preferred means of commuting (25%), followed by the train (24%) and walking (23%). One in ten (10%) respondents said they would prefer a company or university shuttle.

In urban areas, driving by car and getting the bus were tied for the top spot as the most popular primary mode of transport (at 32% respectively). In terms of generations, almost twice as many Generation X commuters drive by car (63%) than Generation Z commuters (32%).

Of those who commute by car, 91% always or mostly do so alone. Their top reasons for travelling to work or university by car are that it is more time-efficient (48%), it is the only option (43%), and inadequate public transport accessibility (34%).

The study found that the average daily commute time is around 1 hour and 10 minutes, whilst the average daily cost is €10. Train commuters have the most expensive journey to work or university (€13.14). At the other end of the scale, (excluding walkers) eBike commuters have the least expensive commute (€4.71).

As for the average distance of a one-way commute, this is just shy of 17km, with those in Roscommon (30.56km), Wicklow (24.97km), and Westmeath (23.76km) travelling furthest. Meanwhile, respondents in Longford (6.13km), Waterford (9.58km), and Donegal (11km) have the shortest distances to travel.

Patrizia Niehaus, CEO, KINTO Join Ltd, said: “It’s ironic that while so many commuters in Ireland drive alone out of necessity, a significant number would actually prefer not to. They’re frustrated – by traffic, rising fuel costs, and the stress of it all – but don’t feel they have another choice. Of course, large-scale infrastructure upgrades are vital, but they take time. In the meantime, the congestion worsens, and emissions reduction targets slip further out of reach. That’s why action at the micro-level is so critical.

“A large share of short-distance travel happens for work and education. Employers and institutions are uniquely positioned to support more sustainable commuting through initiatives like shared transport schemes, carpooling platforms, or incentives for walking and cycling. When organisations take the lead, they not only support their own sustainability goals, but also drive behavioural change that benefits entire communities — cutting emissions, easing traffic, and giving people what they clearly want: the freedom not to drive alone.”

Nordic data companies unveil a new integrated data set combining AI road weather forecasts and with real-time connected car data

Vaisala Xweather and NIRA Dynamics are first to release an integrated data set which connects road weather forecasts and computer vision observations with real-time connected car data, setting a new standard for data-driven road safety and maintenance.

The integration draws on NIRA Dynamics’ expansive data from billions of data points gathered from connected vehicles, paired with Vaisala Xweather’s advanced AI and ML-based road weather forecasting models, which achieve accuracy levels 50% higher than those of publicly available forecasts.

The future of driving is going to be heavily dependent on more accurate and real-time road weather and road condition data as the availability of autonomous and assisted driving features are highly influenced by the driving conditions. Currently, as seen on many Electric Vehicles (EV), the assisted driving functionalities are disconnected to secure driver safety based on crude weather and road condition estimations, such as temperature drop to under 4 degrees Celsius or change in tire rolling resistance.

Real-time data from connected vehicles on tire grip, road friction, surface quality, and weather conditions combined with leading industry-specific weather forecasts, the aggregated data set has multiple use cases already today. This offers significant practical uses today, including reducing accident likelihood by expanding the availability of autonomous and assisted driving features in adverse road and weather conditions, assessing road quality with computer vision to optimize maintenance efforts, and reducing resource usage – such as minimizing winter road salt application. The benefits extend to all road users, from improved safety and reduced environmental impact to cost savings for road authorities and municipalities.

By integrating NIRA Dynamics’ connected vehicle data into Vaisala Xweather’s platform, this partnership creates opportunities for future advancements in road safety and autonomous driving. The combined data opens doors to further applications such as EV range optimization, traffic management, insurance risk assessments, and reducing accident rates.

“At NIRA Dynamics, our mission is to deliver data-driven solutions for safer, more efficient journeys,” says Lisa Åbom, CEO of NIRA Dynamics. “With Vaisala Xweather, we’re able to offer access to road weather data which helps road maintenance professionals, automotive manufacturers, and navigation providers become future proof. We all understand the impact of weather on road safety, and with Vaisala Xweather, we are pushing the industry forward.”

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