NASA's Curious Universe
Earth Series: The Ocean, Now in Full Color
Apr 22, 2025
Josh Willis, an oceanographer at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, dives into the vital connection between oceans and life on Earth, alongside his colleagues. They discuss groundbreaking insights from the PACE and SWOT missions, tracking phytoplankton's role in climate and ocean health. Listeners learn about the challenges of measuring sea level change and the alarming impacts of climate change. With a splash of creativity, Willis embodies 'Climate Elvis,' making the science of our oceans exciting and urgent.
34:55
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Quick takeaways
- NASA's PACE satellite enhances our understanding of ocean health by tracking phytoplankton dynamics through color variations in the water.
- The SWOT satellite provides critical data on sea level rise and ocean currents, highlighting the urgent implications for coastal communities amidst climate change.
Deep dives
The Complex Role of Earth's Oceans
Earth's oceans cover approximately two-thirds of the planet and play an essential role in regulating climate and supporting life. They distribute heat through underwater currents that affect local climates and, by extension, agricultural productivity and livelihoods. Alongside weather regulation, oceans contribute to the oxygen we breathe through phytoplankton, microscopic organisms that also absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide, acting as a natural buffer against climate change. As ice sheets melt and sea levels rise, these oceans are increasingly at risk of flooding coastal cities, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive scientific understanding.
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