The National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration has shared a dramatic high-quality storm video as experienced while floating at sea level. The video was captured by ‘SAILDRONE,’ which is a type of floating drone that resembles a sailboat, only with a bright orange layer and a large solar panel.

This, according to NOAA, the first time drone drone has caught a recording from a large storm. The achievement was pulled by Soudrone Explorer to 1045, which managed to survive from a large wave and 120 mph wind to show how strong this storm was.

In addition to videos, NOAA says Soudrone can collect “critical scientific data” about the weather, including real-time observations that will help improve the models of storm predictions in the future. How can the surface drone survive such an intense storm? According to NOAA, Soudrone displays ‘wing storm’ which allows him to survive the wind and waves.

Soudrone can record data and videos in conditions that cannot be operated by traditional research ships. Among other things, NOAA said the data collected by this surface drone would help coastal communities in their storm paths better to prepare their coming. In addition, data will increase storm forecast for better predictions.

NOAA scientist Greg Foltz said:

Using data collected by SAILDRONES, we hope to improve the estimated model that predict rapid storm intensification. Intensification is fast, when the storm winds strengthen in a matter of hours, is a serious threat to coastal communities. New data from Soudrones and other colorless systems used by NOAA will help us better predict strength that encourages hurricanes and can warn the previous community.