Environmental Observations, Modeling and Forecasting Division
Remote sensing research
Remote sensing allows us to study earth system processes over large areas and in hard-to-access places. When it comes to measuring properties of the atmosphere, for example, remote sensing enables us to capture information about an entire column of air nearly instantaneously. This is invaluable for tracking trace gases and pollutants, as well as for modeling temperature changes in the atmospheric column. Using this technology, CIRES researchers investigate the thermal structure of the middle and upper atmosphere and cloud formation at different heights. In other disciplines, we use remote sensing to monitor ice melt, seismic activity, and land use changes.
