PROJECT INFO
Clouds are powerful agents of global change and play a vital role in influencing local weather as well as controlling the planet's long-term climate. The polar regions are the stormiest and cloudiest regions of the Earth. Research indicates that changes in clouds appear to be enhancing the Earth's warming, particularly over the Arctic. Scientists are currently studying strong correlations between clouds, air temperatures and sea ice, yet despite the many satellites that are continuously monitoring clouds, it's tricky to capture the extent of these interactions with satellites alone.
The GLOBE Observer App was launched in 2016 to facilitate comparisons of ground-based cloud observations by citizen scientists with satellite measurements.
WHAT IT IS ABOUT?
By taking cloud observations during our polar travels, we have the unique opportunity to help researchers understand cloud coverage, cloud types and the presence of haze and fog layers in the polar regions. Scientists also receive insight into how these are changing throughout the season and ultimately what impact this might have on our changing climate.
HOW CAN WE HELP?
SEASON UPDATE
PROJECT IMPACT
Polar regions are Earth’s cloudiest regions, making it hard to detect clouds and aerosols under thick cloud decks. Citizen science observations from expedition ships give researchers a glimpse of what is happening right above the ocean surface.
With nearly 10 years of observations thanks to your help, scientists are now at a pivotal point where they can identify patterns and gain a deeper understanding of clouds in the polar regions.
PROJECT PARTNERS
The GLOBE Program is sponsored by NASA and supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Department of State.
For more project info, visit
