Water

The Airborne Science Program uses different kinds of aircraft to test the instruments that fly on spacecraft, such as satellites.

Aqua’s main goal is to improve our understanding of Earth's water cycle.

This satellite network measures rain and snow worldwide.

GRACE-FO measures changes in Earth’s gravity at least once every 30 days.

The Ice, Cloud and land Elevation Satellite-2 mission measures the thickness of ice sheets and sea ice, and tree canopy heights.

Jason-3 is the fourth U.S.-European satellite mission that measures ocean-surface height.

NISAR will use radar to see through the clouds to learn about the planet. It will measure all of the world’s land and ice twice every 12 days.

This mission studies phytoplankton (a type of tiny algae), ocean color and measures atmospheric particles and clouds.

These satellites will help us to understand ocean circulation. They will also help to measure and monitor global sea level rise. It will also capture measurements of the atmosphere that will help improve how we predict future weather and climate.

SMAP improves our ability to predict and monitor floods and droughts. It also helps to improve regular weather forecasts. It can also help predict how much food farm crops will produce.

Suomi-NPP is a satellite with five instruments that watch Earth's environment and climate.

SWOT is providing the first global survey of all Earth’s surface water.

Terra keeps a close watch on Earth's atmosphere, ocean, land, snow, and ice.