Countdown to ICESat-2 Launch

ICESat-2 is a satellite designed to measure changes in glaciers, ice sheets, and sea ice. It uses advanced laser technology to collect precise height data, firing 10,000 laser pulses per second. The mission builds on data from Operation IceBridge, bridging the gap between the original ICESat and ICESat-2. The satellite orbits Earth at 7 kilometers per second, focusing on polar regions. It features six laser beams and a precise wavelength to minimize data noise. ICESat-2 measures both land and sea ice, providing a comprehensive view of Earth's ice changes. The ATLAS instrument, developed by NASA, ensures high precision in measuring minute changes in ice elevation.

What is the primary purpose of the ICE Sat-2 mission?

• To study the atmosphere of Jupiter

• To measure changes in Earth's ice sheets and sea ice

• To explore the surface of Mars

• To monitor volcanic activity on Earth

How does the ICE Sat-2 satellite achieve high precision in its measurements?

• By employing infrared sensors

• By using multiple satellites

• By orbiting at a low altitude

• By using a fast-firing laser

What is the speed of the ICE Sat-2 satellite as it orbits the Earth?

• 7 kilometers per second

• 12 kilometers per second

• 10 kilometers per second

• 5 kilometers per second

How often does ICE Sat-2 measure the same ground tracks?

• Every 91 days

• Every 365 days

• Every 180 days

• Every 30 days

What is the name of the instrument used by ICE Sat-2 to measure ice changes?

• Advanced Topographic Laser Altimeter System (ATLAS)

• Global Positioning System (GPS)

• Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)

• High-Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE)