What's Happening?
NASA has selected the Earth Dynamics Geodetic Explorer (EDGE) as part of its Earth System Explorers Program. Led by the University of California, San Diego, the mission includes Woods Hole Oceanographic
Institution's Catherine Walker, who will contribute her expertise in glacier and ice shelf dynamics. EDGE aims to improve the observation of Earth's surface in three dimensions, supporting environmental change forecasting and disaster preparedness. The mission will utilize advanced LIDAR technology to provide high-resolution, three-dimensional reconstructions of Earth's features, enhancing the capabilities established by previous missions like ICESat-2 and GEDI.
Why It's Important?
The EDGE mission represents a significant advancement in Earth observation technology, offering improved spatial coverage and accuracy. By providing detailed data on Earth's surface, the mission will support a wide range of applications, including water-resource planning, Arctic shipping safety, and infrastructure risk management in permafrost regions. The mission's data will be crucial for scientists, policymakers, and planners in assessing vulnerabilities and responding to environmental hazards. The selection of EDGE underscores NASA's commitment to leveraging space-based technology for societal benefits and environmental stewardship.
