Skywatch Windspeed Device

June-July 1996

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web.

"Phew, it was really blowin' out there. Musta been 25 knots!"
"Nahhh... 15."
"More like 30!"

Ever heard this discussion after getting safely back to shore?

Or have you ever stood on shore with other paddlers, trying to estimate windspeed by looking at the whitecaps, wondering if it was safe to put in?

Now there's a device to solve the arguments -- or most of them. It's Skywatch©, a cute little handheld device made in Switzerland, and marketed in Canada by Ikarus Holdings.

This is no toy -- although it is as simple as a toy. You find an exposed spot and hold the device above you, facing directly into the breeze. Then, with a gentle squeeze of your thumb, you initiate the sampling and watch the LCD display the windspeed.

The numbers may fluctuate if it's gusty, but watching over ten seconds, you can determine the maximum wind you'll be dealing with.

Of course this says nothing about the seastate or weather patterns. For these, you need to consult your other senses or devices (weather radio/VHF, etc.). And ultimately caution should underlie any judgement. But this device can aid your judgement by providing information.

When sampling from shore, it is important to consider the height of the site and degree of exposure, and for accuracy you must sample directly into the wind.

This is a useful little gadget -- and tough (I managed to drop it, with no damage), plus it's waterproof and it floats!

Although it's not possible to replace the power source, or recharge it, the Lithium battery should last for up to 10 million readings of 10 seconds each, so it's not going to let you down anytime soon.

With a handy strap and weighing only one ounce, you can wear Skywatch around your neck where it's handy for quick measurements.

At the very least, it will make the notes in your log book more accurate. But you may also enjoy being the one everyone comes to, to settle their arguments!

Available from Ikarus Holdings, PO Box 416, Peachland, BC CANADA V0H 1X0. Ph: 604/767-9161. Fax: 604/767-9263