UB scientists selected for NASA satellite mission to map Earth’s ice sheets and ecosystems – UBNow: News and views for UB faculty and staff

Mapping a Changing World: UB Scientists Join NASA’s Next-Generation Earth Monitoring Mission

The future of environmental prediction just got a significant boost. Scientists at the University at Buffalo (UB), Sophie Nowicki and Beata Csatho, are key members of an international team selected for NASA’s Earth Dynamics Geodetic Explorer (EDGE) mission. This ambitious project, slated to launch no earlier than 2030, promises to revolutionize our understanding of Earth’s rapidly changing landscapes – from shrinking ice sheets to evolving forests.

The Power of Laser Altimetry: Seeing Earth in 3D

EDGE will employ a cutting-edge technology called laser altimetry. Think of it as a highly precise, space-based laser scanner. By sending laser pulses to Earth and measuring their return time, EDGE will create detailed, three-dimensional maps of our planet’s surface. This isn’t new territory for NASA; the ICESat-2 and GEDI missions paved the way. However, EDGE represents a leap forward, utilizing a denser network of laser beams to achieve unprecedented resolution and accuracy.

“We’re moving from a broad brushstroke to a fine-point pen,” explains Dr. Csatho, a professor in the Department of Earth Sciences. “This increased detail is crucial for understanding the complex processes driving changes in ice sheets, which directly impact sea level rise.” Recent data from the NASA Climate Change website shows global mean sea level has risen about 21-24 centimeters (8-9 inches) since 1880, with about a third of that occurring in just the last two and a half decades. EDGE aims to refine these predictions.

Did you know? Laser altimetry can penetrate cloud cover, providing data even in challenging weather conditions.

Focusing on the ‘Edges’ of Change

The mission’s name, EDGE, isn’t accidental. It reflects the team’s focus on the vulnerable regions where change is happening most rapidly – the edges of ice sheets, the boundaries of forests and dynamic coastal zones. These areas are often the first to exhibit signs of instability and are critical for understanding potential tipping points.

“We’re targeting regions where processes aren’t fully understood,” says Dr. Nowicki, SUNY Empire Innovation Professor of Earth Sciences. “Understanding these areas *before* we reach irreversible tipping points is paramount. The launch timeframe around 2030 is particularly significant, as predictions suggest some of these tipping points could be reached shortly thereafter.”

Beyond Ice: Mapping Ecosystems and Forests

While ice sheet monitoring is a primary focus, EDGE’s capabilities extend far beyond the polar regions. The high-resolution data will also be invaluable for studying terrestrial ecosystems, particularly forests. For example, the mission can help assess forest biomass – the amount of carbon stored in trees – which is a critical factor in climate modeling. A 2023 study published in Nature highlighted the crucial role of intact tropical forests in regulating global climate patterns.

Pro Tip: High-resolution elevation data from EDGE will also improve the accuracy of flood risk assessments in coastal areas.

AI and the Future of Earth Observation

The sheer volume of data generated by EDGE will require advanced analytical tools. The team plans to leverage the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to process and interpret the information, integrating it with other Earth observations. This synergy between advanced technology and data science will unlock new insights into Earth’s complex systems.

“AI will allow us to identify patterns and trends that would be impossible to detect manually,” Dr. Csatho notes. “It will also help us create more accurate and reliable models for predicting future changes.”

From Data to Action: Empowering Communities

The EDGE mission isn’t just about collecting data; it’s about translating that data into actionable information for communities around the world. Dr. Nowicki’s role as cryosphere application lead emphasizes this commitment.

“The users of our data will be incredibly diverse,” she explains. “From scientists studying climate change to governments planning for sea-level rise, to private organizations assessing navigational routes – the applications are vast. We want to empower communities to build resilience in the face of environmental challenges.”

EDGE: A Collaborative Effort

The EDGE mission is a testament to the power of international collaboration. In addition to UB and UC San Diego, the team includes researchers from institutions in Australia, the UK, Singapore, and across the United States. This collaborative spirit ensures a diverse range of expertise and perspectives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is laser altimetry? It’s a remote sensing technology that uses laser pulses to measure the distance to Earth’s surface, creating detailed 3D maps.
• When will the EDGE mission launch? No earlier than 2030.
• What are the main goals of the EDGE mission? To improve our understanding of ice sheet dynamics, monitor terrestrial ecosystems, and provide actionable data for communities facing environmental challenges.
• How will EDGE data be used? For a wide range of applications, including sea-level rise prediction, flood risk assessment, forest biomass estimation, and navigational planning.

Want to learn more about Earth observation technologies? Explore our other articles on remote sensing and climate change.

Share your thoughts! What environmental challenges are most pressing in your community? Leave a comment below.