NASA is charting a course for a deeper understanding of our planet's intricate systems, but the path forward is sparking debate! The space agency has recently announced its selection of two ambitious missions, STRIVE and EDGE, to advance under the Earth System Explorers (ESE) program. This initiative is all about conducting high-quality Earth science, directly addressing the vital recommendations laid out in the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine's 2017 Decadal Survey for Earth Science and Applications from Space.
Unpacking the STRIVE Mission: A Glimpse into Our Atmosphere's Secrets
The STRIVE mission, spearheaded by Lyatt Jaegle from the University of Washington, is set to revolutionize how we observe our atmosphere. Imagine getting incredibly detailed snapshots of temperature, aerosol properties, and various atmospheric elements from the upper troposphere all the way to the mesosphere. Unlike previous endeavors, STRIVE aims to achieve this with an unprecedented high spatial density of measurements, delivering near-global readings on a daily basis.
But here's where it gets truly exciting: STRIVE also has a crucial role in monitoring the recovery of our ozone layer. To do this, it will meticulously measure vertical profiles of ozone and trace gases. This is a critical step in understanding atmospheric healing and protecting life on Earth.
Introducing the EDGE Mission: Mapping Our Icy and Green Frontiers
On the other side of this dynamic duo is the EDGE mission, led by Helen Amanda Fricker at the University of California San Diego. EDGE is designed to build upon and enhance the groundbreaking work already being done by NASA's Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite 2 and the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation mission. EDGE will provide invaluable observations of the surface topography of glaciers, ice sheets, and sea ice, offering a clearer picture of our changing cryosphere. Furthermore, it will delve into the three-dimensional structure of terrestrial ecosystems, giving us a more comprehensive view of our planet's green lungs.
The Rigorous Road to Selection: How Were These Missions Chosen?
The journey to becoming an ESE mission is a rigorous one. It all began in May 2024 with the selection of four initial proposals, following the program's final announcement of opportunity a year prior. Each of these promising proposals received $5 million for a year-long concept study. After this intensive period, NASA made the critical decision to advance STRIVE and EDGE to the next phase.
And this is the part most people miss: These two missions are now slated for a confirmation review in 2027. This review will be pivotal in assessing their progress and ensuring funding availability. If all goes well, we can anticipate their launch no earlier than 2030.
Here's a point that might spark some discussion: While the scientific potential is immense, the cost is also a significant factor. Each mission is projected to cost at most $355 million, excluding the launch itself.
What are your thoughts on these ambitious missions? Do you believe the investment is justified given the potential scientific returns? Let us know in the comments below!
