Fri Nov 08 20:37:16 UTC 2024: ## NASA and ISRO Team Up to Launch NISAR Satellite for Earth Observation

**Pasadena, California** – A new satellite mission, NISAR, developed in collaboration between NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is set to launch in early 2025 and promises to revolutionize our understanding of Earth’s surface changes. Equipped with advanced radar instruments, NISAR will provide unprecedented detail on the planet’s movements, aiding in disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts.

NISAR will measure the motion of nearly all of Earth’s land and ice-covered surfaces twice every 12 days, creating a comprehensive picture of surface changes over time. This data will be crucial for understanding phenomena like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides, as well as tracking infrastructure damage.

“This kind of regular observation allows us to look at how Earth’s surface moves across nearly the entire planet,” said Cathleen Jones, NISAR applications lead at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

The satellite’s advanced radar instruments, operating at long wavelengths, will enable it to penetrate dense vegetation and clouds, providing a continuous stream of data even in challenging conditions.

“NISAR won’t tell us when earthquakes will happen. Instead, it will help us better understand which areas of the world are most susceptible to significant earthquakes,” said Mark Simons, the U.S. solid Earth science lead for the mission.

The data will also help researchers understand volcanic activity, providing valuable insights into land deformation and potential eruptions. NISAR’s ability to monitor infrastructure like levees, aqueducts, and dams will allow for early detection of damage and ensure efficient resource management.

“Instead of going out and surveying an entire aqueduct every five years, you can target your surveys to problem areas,” said Jones.

This collaborative effort between NASA and ISRO signifies a significant leap in Earth observation technology. The mission is poised to provide a wealth of information, empowering scientists and policymakers to better understand and manage our planet’s dynamic surface.

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