“Unraveling the Secrets of Tides: From D-Day to Green Energy”
On June 6, 1944, the Allied forces executed a daring and meticulously planned attack on the beaches of Normandy, known as D-Day, which marked a turning point in World War II. One crucial element that made this invasion successful was the deep understanding of ocean tides.
Gregory Dusek, a senior scientist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, emphasized the importance of accurate tide predictions for the success of the D-Day invasion. Incorrect calculations could have resulted in landing craft being stranded on the beach, jeopardizing the entire operation.
The phenomenon of ocean tides is intricately linked to the gravitational forces exerted by celestial bodies such as the sun, the moon, and the Earth. When these bodies align, they create bulges in the water, leading to high and low tides as the Earth rotates. The phases of the moon also influence the intensity of tides, with full and new moons causing the most extreme tides.
The significance of understanding tides extends beyond military operations. It plays a crucial role in global shipping, coastal development, and even renewable energy generation. NOAA has developed reports that can predict coastal flooding up to a year in advance, aiding in disaster preparedness. Scientists are also exploring the potential of harnessing tidal energy through underwater turbines in regions with strong tides, such as the Bay of Fundy.
The historical and practical implications of tides highlight the importance of ongoing research and monitoring in this field. By studying and predicting tides, we can not only protect coastal communities but also explore sustainable energy solutions for the future.
For more science history coverage, listeners can reach out to Short Wave at [email protected]. The Short Wave podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. To support NPR’s work and access sponsor-free episodes, listeners can sign up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave. This episode was produced by Rachel Carlson and Hannah Chin, edited by Rebecca Ramirez, and audio engineered by Robert Rodriguez.