NASA’s Earth Science Division uses over 20 satellites to monitor global warming, sea‑level rise and extreme weather, providing open data for researchers and policymakers.

NASA operates more than 20 Earth‑observing satellites to track climate change worldwide.

The agency’s Earth Science Division collects long‑term data on temperature, ice, sea level and atmospheric composition, then makes the information available to researchers, policymakers and industry.

Evidence of a warming planet

Satellite measurements show that global surface temperature has risen sharply since the mid‑20th century. The data, combined with ground stations, confirm an unprecedented warming trend.

Human activities driving the trend

Scientists link the warming to the expansion of the greenhouse effect caused by burning fossil fuels. Combustion of coal, oil and gas raises atmospheric carbon dioxide, trapping more heat.

Observed impacts

Remote sensing reveals shrinking sea ice, retreating glaciers and rising sea levels. Heat‑wave intensity and frequency have also increased, matching model projections.

NASA tools for climate research

Programs such as the Climate Time Machine, Global Ice Viewer and Sea Level Change Observations from Space provide visual and quantitative records of change.

The Goddard Institute for Space Studies maintains the GISTEMP temperature record, while the NASA Center for Climate Simulation supplies high‑performance computing for weather and climate forecasts.

Researchers use the Earth Exchange platform to analyze petabyte‑scale datasets, and the Global Modeling and Assimilation Office produces operational climate products.

Collaboration and outreach

NASA partners with international agencies, academic institutions and private firms to expand data use. A spokesperson said, "Our satellite fleet gives decision‑makers the science they need to protect communities and ecosystems."

All data are publicly accessible, enabling scientists worldwide to monitor trends and develop mitigation strategies.