Using Global Earth Science Data

Activity Source: NASA

 

Background

With the use of cutting-edge remote sensing technologies, NASA can collect a wealth of data that offers a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of our planet. This data ranges from monitoring land cover changes and oceanic currents to deciphering climate patterns and atmospheric composition through an intricate network of satellites, ground-based sensors, and aerial platforms. The My NASA Data visualization tool, the Earth System Data Explorer (ESDE), helps learners visualize complex Earth System data sets over space and time. Using the tool, learners can select specific variables and explore data visually using customizable charts and comparison options.

Materials

  • Computer with internet access

Procedure

  1. Go to the Earth System Data Explorer.

  2. Compare the same variable in different months:

    a. On the ‘Dataset Selection’ pane, select the ‘Atmosphere’ sphere, ‘Temperature’ category, and ‘Monthly Surface Air Temperature’ dataset for the date of January 2021 to load the data on the map. Make observations of what the map shows.

    b. Under the ‘Analysis Tools’ pane, select ‘Compare Two’ to see two different datasets side-by-side on the map.

    c. On the right ‘Dataset Selection’ pane, make the same selections, but for the date August 2021. The global monthly average surface air temperature from January 2021 will be on the left and August 2021 on the right.

    d. Move the slider left and right on the map to analyze the differences. Zoom in to your state. Compare the Monthly Surface Air Temperature data between January and August 2021 in your state.

  3. Compare two variables for the month of August:

    a. Change the left map by selecting the ‘Biosphere’ sphere, ‘Vegetation’ category, and ‘Monthly Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)’ dataset for August 2021. Look at the legend and read the description of NDVI.

    b. Compare the Monthly Surface Air Temperature and NDVI data for August 2021 in your state.

Analysis

For step 2:
a. How does Surface Air Temperature compare between January and August?
b. What evidence do you observe that shows the differences between the two months? Explain.

For step 3:
a. What differences, if any, do you find between variations of variables over the oceans versus variations in variables over the continents?
b. How does your state compare to other areas you know to have different climates?
c. How could you determine the impact of this variable on other Earth systems?

Further Steps

ESDE Tutorial: This tutorial will guide you through using the Earth System Data Explorer tool.

Use the Data Literacy Cubes (in the ESW Toolkit or online) to further analyze the map(s).

Find related lessons.

NGSS Connections

  • SEP: Analyzing and Interpreting Data
  • DCI: ESS2.A: Earth’s Materials and Systems
  • CCC: Patterns

SDG Connections