1.
When was the first environmental monitoring satellite launched?
Correct Answer
A. 1960
Explanation
The first environmental monitoring satellite was "TIROS-1," which stands for Television and Infrared Observation Satellite. It was launched on April 1, 1960. TIROS-1 was a pioneering satellite designed to observe and monitor Earth's weather and cloud cover. It played a significant role in advancing our understanding of meteorology and environmental monitoring from space.
2.
Which satellite system is specifically designed for monitoring the Earth's ozone layer?
Correct Answer
D. OMPS
Explanation
The satellite system specifically designed for monitoring the Earth's ozone layer is "OMPS," which stands for the Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite. OMPS is a system of instruments on several satellites, including the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (S-NPP) satellite and the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) series, designed to measure various aspects of Earth's atmosphere, including the concentration and distribution of ozone.
3.
Which satellite mission is dedicated to monitoring global sea surface temperatures?
Correct Answer
D. NOAA/NASA Joint Polar Satellite System
Explanation
The satellite mission dedicated to monitoring global sea surface temperatures is the "NOAA/NASA Joint Polar Satellite System" (JPSS). The JPSS program, which includes satellites equipped with instruments like the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS), is specifically designed to monitor various environmental parameters, including sea surface temperatures.
4.
What does MODIS stand for in the context of environmental monitoring satellites?
Correct Answer
C. Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer
Explanation
MODIS stands for "Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer." It is a key instrument on several Earth-observing satellites, including the Terra and Aqua satellites, and is used for monitoring and acquiring data related to various aspects of Earth's environment, such as land cover, ocean color, atmospheric properties, and more.
5.
Which satellite system is used for monitoring atmospheric carbon dioxide levels?
Correct Answer
D. OCO-2
Explanation
The satellite system used for monitoring atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels is "OCO-2," which stands for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2. OCO-2 is a NASA satellite mission dedicated to measuring global carbon dioxide levels in Earth's atmosphere, helping scientists better understand the carbon cycle and its impact on climate change.
6.
What does GPM stand for in the context of environmental monitoring satellites?
Correct Answer
A. Global Precipitation Measurement
Explanation
GPM stands for "Global Precipitation Measurement." It is an international satellite mission focused on measuring and monitoring global precipitation, including rain and snow, to improve our understanding of Earth's water cycle and weather patterns.
7.
Which satellite system is used for monitoring deforestation and changes in land cover?
Correct Answer
D. LANDSAT
Explanation
The satellite system used for monitoring deforestation and changes in land cover is "Landsat." The Landsat program, operated by NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey, has provided a long history of Earth observation data that is crucial for tracking land cover changes, deforestation, and various other environmental monitoring applications.
8.
What is the primary function of the CYGNSS satellite constellation?
Correct Answer
B. Measuring ocean wave heights
Explanation
The primary function of the CYGNSS satellite constellation is "Measuring ocean wave heights." CYGNSS, which stands for Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System, is a NASA mission designed to improve our understanding of hurricane intensity by measuring the roughness of the ocean surface, which is related to wind speed. This information helps in tracking and predicting the development of tropical storms and hurricanes.
9.
Which satellite system provides data for monitoring forest fires and smoke plumes?
Correct Answer
B. Suomi NPP
Explanation
The satellite system that provides data for monitoring forest fires and smoke plumes is "Suomi NPP," which stands for the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership satellite. Suomi NPP carries instruments such as the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS), which can capture data related to fires, smoke, and other environmental phenomena.
10.
Which satellite system is used for monitoring air quality and pollution levels?
Correct Answer
B. Suomi NPP
Explanation
The satellite system used for monitoring air quality and pollution levels is "Suomi NPP." Suomi NPP carries instruments, including the Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (OMPS), which provide data on atmospheric properties, including ozone levels, aerosols, and other factors that are crucial for assessing air quality and pollution levels.