Solid Earth Sciences Division
Gravity from space research
Earth's gravitational field changes in strength according to minor differences in surface topography and mass. Even water runoff after a rainstorm can temporarily alter Earth's gravitational pull by changing the surface characteristics over a particular area. By taking precise measurements of gravity from space, CIRES scientists are able to monitor changes in the distribution of Earth's mass. We can apply this technology to track melting of continental ice sheets and follow the depletion of underground aquifers.
