NASA sent out its first small shoebox-sized climate satellite at 7:41 p.m. on Saturday from Launch Complex 1 of Rocket Lab, a company based in Mahia, north of New Zealand. The satellite was launched via an Electron rocket as part of the PREFIRE (Polar Radiant Energy in Far-Infrared Experiment) mission. This mission involves two cube satellites of similar size, aiming to measure the heat emitted by Earth into space from two extremely cold and distant regions.
The data collected from the PREFIRE mission will assist researchers in making more accurate predictions regarding the impact of Earth's ice, oceans, and climate in a warming environment. Karen St. Germain, NASA's director of Earth science research, highlighted that the PREFIRE mission will enhance our ability to model critical aspects of the Earth's system, providing new insights into polar activities and climate patterns.
The launch of such compact satellites offers a cost-effective means to address specific scientific queries, complementing the broader capabilities of larger satellites. By bridging existing knowledge gaps, NASA's latest PREFIRE mission contributes to advancing our comprehension of Earth's intricate system.
Germain also noted that the satellite launch will furnish scientists with detailed insights into how Earth's polar regions influence the energy balance of the planet, leading to more accurate forecasts concerning sea ice dynamics, ice sheet behavior, and sea level changes. This newfound knowledge will facilitate better preparation for various sectors, including agriculture, fishing, and coastal communities, enabling them to adapt to the evolving climate effectively.
