The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) recently launched a satellite named Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) from Southern California. This significant event was made possible by the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The main purpose of this launch is to conduct a global survey of Earth’s freshwater systems from space, which will be the first of its kind.
Understanding Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT)
SWOT is an advanced radar satellite designed to provide crucial data to scientists about our oceans and potentially how climate change affects them. This unique satellite includes advanced microwave radar technology, allowing it to capture high-quality measurements of oceans, lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. Covering over 90% of Earth’s surface, SWOT offers a vast field of observation.
Significance of the Satellite
The information gathered by SWOT will enable scientists to measure water levels of ocean features with an accuracy ten times greater than currently achievable. Furthermore, the satellite will have the capacity to measure over a million distinct lakes and rivers on Earth, adding to its significance.
Through its observations, SWOT can improve flood forecast accuracy, provide precise drought monitoring, and offer insights into rising sea levels and life on our planet. In addition, SWOT’s mission focuses on understanding how oceans absorb atmospheric heat and carbon dioxide. This natural process helps regulate global temperatures and mitigate the impacts of climate change. It is estimated that oceans have absorbed more than 90% of the excess heat in Earth’s atmosphere resulting from human-induced greenhouse gas emissions.
Key Takeaways from UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions
A key question in the 2016 UPSC Civil Services Examination was about ‘Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)’, which had recently been in the news. The options provided were (a) an electric plane tested by NASA, (b) a solar-powered two-seater aircraft designed by Japan, (c) a space observatory launched by China, and (d) a reusable rocket designed by ISRO.
The correct answer was option (a): Greased Lightning–10 (GL–10) is a NASA-developed, battery-powered plane featuring ten engines. This unique aircraft can take off and land like a helicopter while achieving the efficient flight of a conventional airplane. The GL-10 is remotely piloted, has a wingspan of 3.05 meters, and has eight electric motors on the wings and two on the tail. At takeoff, it weighs a maximum of 28.1 kilograms.
Source
The facts provided in this article were sourced from TH (The Hindu). Ensuring accuracy and validity of the information presented is critical for a clear understanding of these complex and impactful topics. As developments in space exploration and our understanding of climate change progress, reliable sources like TH continue to provide essential updates and insights.
