Kamal Ghorui
NASA is returning to Earth in a big way. The space agency announced two new satellite missions that might change ‘how we see’ and ‘understand our home planet’. These are not just any satellites; rather, they are supposed to track everything from the ozone layer high up in the sky to glaciers and ice sheets down below. Experts say the data could help predict environmental disasters, protect coastal communities, and even assist in planning future missions to the Moon and Mars. It is important to consider extreme environments on Earth, which in turn would be a plus mark for the astronauts in exploring Mars or the Moon. NASA views these missions to get more clear picture of what is happening, predicting hurricanes, tracking ozone discovery, and monitoring glaciers that affect sea levels
NASA’s two new satellite missions: STRIVE and EDGE
STRIVE
One of the missions is called STRIVE (Stratosphere Troposphere Response using Infrared Vertically-resolved light Explorer). Basically, it is going to measure temperature, gases, aerosols, and ozone in the atmosphere. From the upper troposphere to the mesosphere and experts say this kind of detailed view is striking.Lyatt Jaeglé from the University of Washington is leading the project. She reportedly believes the high-resolution data could improve longer-range weather forecasts. That’s huge for people living in coastal areas, where storms can get nasty fast. It also might help scientists understand how the ozone layer is recovering, something we’re still watching closely.
EDGE
The second mission is called EDGE (Earth Dynamics Geodetic Explorer). It’s designed to map ecosystems, glaciers, ice sheets, and even sea ice. Helen Amanda Fricker at the University of California San Diego leads EDGE. The mission might give better insights into terrain, shipping routes, and other areas important for commerce. Scientists say it could help understand climate change in a much more tangible way. You could almost picture the maps, colourful and precise, rolling in from space.
NASA’s new satellite mission: Costs and timelines
Both missions are moving into the next development phase. Each mission will face a confirmation review in 2027. That’s when NASA will check progress and whether funds are available. If all goes well, the missions will cost under $355 million each, not including launch. Launch will not be earlier than 2030.
