NASA’s Six New Missions to Study Earth’s Environment: Collecting Data for a Better Future

NASA has announced six new missions to observe and collect environmental information on Earth. The Earth Sciences Division at NASA, led by Karen St. Germain, will utilize airplanes, helicopters, and drones over the next decade to study various aspects of our planet’s environment.

One of the missions will focus on water flow changes in the Arctic, while another will investigate the impact of wildfires on weather patterns. In North America and Mexico City, a project will research air pollution in urban areas at a neighborhood level, examining how pollutants affect human health. The retreat of glaciers in Greenland, Alaska, and Canada will be analyzed in a mission led by the University of Arizona. Another mission will focus on measuring greenhouse gases in agriculture.

NASA has emphasized the importance of its work in studying Earth and its environment. The PACE satellite Earth observation mission launched in February provides information on aerosols and phytoplankton growth in oceans. NASA director Bill Nelson underscored the significance of satellites and space vehicles in observing Earth and gathering scientific data to protect our planet.

To celebrate the 54th Earth Day, NASA encouraged people worldwide to go outside and take a selfie, showcasing their favorite natural spots. The agency urged participants to include water in their photos, as 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water. This initiative aims to raise awareness of the beauty and importance of our planet’s environment.

In conclusion, NASA’s six new missions are designed to observe and collect environmental information that will help us understand our planet better. These projects are crucial for protecting our planet’s resources and ensuring a sustainable future for all living beings on it.