Satellite information
can now be gathered frequently enough to provide, as in a movie, a
view of the complex and dynamic nature of the Earth system.
These animations, which show actual satellite data and are not cartoons or drawings, show how space
observations now enable quantitative measurements of properties
such as temperature, concentrations of atmospheric
gases, and the exact elevation of land
and ocean.
Explore animations on...
Atmospheric Composition—from tracking the air-quality impacts of wildfires to monitoring the size of the ozone hole, satellites measure many chemical properties of Earth’s atmosphere.
Biosphere—satellites help scientists observe biological processes around the globe, such as the greening of terrestrial vegetation in the spring or blooms of aquatic organisms in the ocean.
Cryosphere—satellites help scientists study the areas of Earth covered by ice and snow.
Oceans—measurements from satellites shed light on ocean circulation patterns and changes in sea surface temperature.
Weather—satellites track wind, water, and other atmospheric variables to gain insights on weather patterns and improve predictions.
