NASA's Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite (ICESat)

NASA's Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite (ICESat) is a space-based observatory launched to measure Earth's surface with high precision. It uses laser technology to determine the elevation of ice sheets, glaciers, land, and vegetation, helping scientists monitor changes over time. By tracking variations in ice thickness and land height, ICESat provides critical data on climate change impacts, especially in polar regions. Its measurements assist in understanding sea-level rise, glacier melting, and the Earth's overall topography, supporting climate research and environmental monitoring efforts globally.