The NASA Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite (ICESat) mission was a groundbreaking Earth-observing mission designed to monitor changes in Earth's polar ice sheets, sea ice, and vegetation. ICESat utilized advanced laser technology to precisely measure changes in elevation, capturing data crucial for understanding climate-related phenomena.
Launched in 2003, ICESat marked a significant advancement in Earth science by providing detailed elevation data from both polar regions. It measured the thickness of ice sheets and glaciers and tracked changes in sea ice cover over time, contributing to our understanding of climate change and its effects on our planet.
While the original ICESat mission ended in 2009, NASA's commitment to Earth science and climate research continues with subsequent missions and instruments.
