Garmin announces GWX 8000 StormOptix weather radar with automated weather threat analysis technology

The system reduces pilot workload by providing an automated clear representation of weather by using an enhanced color palette now offering 16 colors, 3D volumetric scanning, hail and lightning prediction, advanced ground clutter suppression, and optional predictive wind shear detection. The GWX 8000 StormOptix weather radar provides pilots with a complete picture of weather while eliminating the requirement to manually adjust the radar, resulting in easier weather interpretation and a more simplified operation.

The development process for the GWX 8000 StormOptix weather radar involved complex research and flight test programs, including five years of development to optimize StormOptix autoscan technology and enable simplified operation. Garmin thoroughly flight tested the technology in the most challenging operational conditions including strati-form rain, mild rain, severe thunderstorms, hail, lightning, windshear conditions, and more to verify performance. Further, Garmin tested the technology in environments conducive to producing ground clutter in order to verify the GWX 8000 StormOptix weather radar can consistently eliminate nonweather returns, ultimately offering pilots a cleaner, clear image that allows them to focus on navigating challenging weather conditions. The tireless effort of developing and rigorously testing the GWX 8000 StormOptix results in a solution that brings an easy to use weather radar solution to a broader array of aircraft, from turbine-powered Part 25 platforms to high-performance Part 23 aircraft.