Some of the NASA Earth observation missions that likely have the greatest impact on climate change awareness include:
Satellite Missions for Climate Monitoring:
Missions like the Orbiting Carbon Observatory OCO satellites, the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment GRACE satellites and the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer MODIS instruments provide critical data on atmospheric carbon dioxide levels changes in Earth gravity field and other key climate indicators.
Earth Observing System EOSMissions:
The EOS program includes satellites like Terra Aqua and Aura, which monitor a wide range of climate relevant variables such as clouds, aerosols atmospheric composition, and surface temperatures.
Earth Venture Mission:
Smaller more targeted Earth science missions under the Earth Venture program, such as the Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System CYGNSS help fill gaps in our understanding of the Earth system and its response to climate change.
Advanced Satellite Technologies:
Newer Earth observation platforms like the Landsat 8 and 9 satellites, as well as the upcoming Landsat Next generation koshish kar provide high-resolution imagery and data that enable detailed monitoring of land use changes deforestation, and other climate-related phenomena.
The combination of these comprehensive Earth observation capabilities allows NASA to gather a wealth of data that informs our understanding of climate change, its impacts, and the effectiveness of mitigation and adaptation strategies. This scientific knowledge is crucial for raising awareness and driving informed decision-making on climate action.
R&D scientist at ABB Bomem Inc.
3wMore details on the mission and on the instrument can be found on U of Toronto site. mopitt.physics.utoronto.ca