Most satellite instruments look straight down toward Earth. But Earth's surface, the clouds, even tiny particles floating in the air, each reflect light differently when viewed at different angles. This matters to us because the light being reflected is sunlight, which carries the energy that heats our planet. MISR is a new type of instrument that will view the Earth with cameras pointed in 9 different directions. MISR data will improve our understanding of the fate of sunlight in the Earth environment, and will also distinguish different types of clouds, particles, and surfaces.
Carbon monoxide is a common pollutant and a by-product of biomass burning.
Methane is an important greenhouse gas. SAGE III data will improve our understanding of ozone depletion, volcanic effects, and environmental climate changes.