Earth Science & Technology

Using our unique expertise to better understand how Earth works as a system for the benefit of society

Features & News

The Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich satellite launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base in central California on Nov. 21, 2020. NASA's Eyes visualization tools lets you track the spacecraft as begins its mission to measure sea level height as it orbits Earth.

The Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich satellite launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base in central California on Nov. 21. NASA's Eyes visualization tools lets you track the spacecraft as begins its mission to measure sea level height as it orbits Earth. Credits: NASA/JPL-Caltech

Follow Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich in Real Time As It Orbits Earth

People looking to plant crops now have a new planning tool in their toolbox thanks to soil moisture data collected by NASA’s Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) mission.

NASA Data Powers New USDA Soil Moisture Portal

An SUV-size Earth satellite that will be equipped with the largest reflector antenna ever launched by NASA is taking shape in the clean room at the agency’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.

Major Earth Satellite to Track Disasters, Effects of Climate Change

Earth Science Missions

Currently there are more than a dozen missions in operation and several more in development being managed by the Earth Science and Technology Directorate.

Airborne Missions

JPL's Earth Science Airborne Suborbital Instruments and Measurements consist of missions utilizing remote sensing instruments for suborbital studies which are flown on a variety of airborne systems.