In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we begin a series on Landsat’s usefulness in coastal studies. First, we talk with Sean Vitousek, a USGS research oceanographer, about changes to beaches in California and how he is using Landsat and other data to create models that can predict how the coastline may change in the future because of sea level rise and coastal erosion.
EROS Center Communications
Science and Products
![Eyes on Earth thumbnail image for Episode 120 – Mapping the California Coastline showing guest Sean Vitousek on a watercraft](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE120_thumbnail-900x900_0.png?itok=h5RgEFQP)
![Eyes on Earth thumbnail image for Episode 120 – Mapping the California Coastline showing guest Sean Vitousek on a watercraft](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE120_thumbnail-900x900_0.png?itok=h5RgEFQP)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we begin a series on Landsat’s usefulness in coastal studies. First, we talk with Sean Vitousek, a USGS research oceanographer, about changes to beaches in California and how he is using Landsat and other data to create models that can predict how the coastline may change in the future because of sea level rise and coastal erosion.
The Smokehouse Creek Fire started about 1 mile north of Stinnett, Texas on February 26th, 2024. Three days later, the fire had consumed over 1 million acres. With a total area of 1,654 square miles, it became the largest fire on record in Texas. That's larger than New York's Long Island.
The Smokehouse Creek Fire started about 1 mile north of Stinnett, Texas on February 26th, 2024. Three days later, the fire had consumed over 1 million acres. With a total area of 1,654 square miles, it became the largest fire on record in Texas. That's larger than New York's Long Island.
![Image of EROS Center and Kristi Kline with Eyes on Earth graphic on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE119_thumbnail-900x900_0.png?itok=i9G3DKbz)
![Image of EROS Center and Kristi Kline with Eyes on Earth graphic on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE119_thumbnail-900x900_0.png?itok=i9G3DKbz)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with Kristi Kline about the constant changes and innovations that have been needed at EROS to keep up with changes in computer tech and data processing. Kline has been a part of helping to implement these changes over the past 27 years and is now retiring at the end of May 2024.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with Kristi Kline about the constant changes and innovations that have been needed at EROS to keep up with changes in computer tech and data processing. Kline has been a part of helping to implement these changes over the past 27 years and is now retiring at the end of May 2024.
![Image of Earth with mugshots of three people and a little text overlaid](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE118_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=u2TKAFkd)
![Image of Earth with mugshots of three people and a little text overlaid](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE118_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=u2TKAFkd)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with several people involved with the next Landsat mission, targeted for launch around 2030. While that may seem like a ways into the future, it takes a lot of work to prepare for such a big mission.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with several people involved with the next Landsat mission, targeted for launch around 2030. While that may seem like a ways into the future, it takes a lot of work to prepare for such a big mission.
![Image of the Week: A Warm February in Northern Minnesota A satellite image of a lake beside an image of the Earth, with text on top of the image](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Northern%20Minnesota%20IOW%20thumbnail.png?itok=sIPXDaeV)
Like many lakes in northern Minnesota, Mille Lacs near Brainerd experienced an uncommonly warm winter this year, with lower than average snowfall. Natural color Landsat images from the past ten Februarys reveal a stark change in 2024.
Like many lakes in northern Minnesota, Mille Lacs near Brainerd experienced an uncommonly warm winter this year, with lower than average snowfall. Natural color Landsat images from the past ten Februarys reveal a stark change in 2024.
![Earth surrounded by illustration of satellite passes with a white label and three mugshots overlaying it](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE117_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=NTulMzbe)
![Earth surrounded by illustration of satellite passes with a white label and three mugshots overlaying it](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE117_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=NTulMzbe)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with several people involved with the next Landsat mission. In Part 1, we’ll hear about how different Landsat Next will be from previous Landsat missions and how its additional spectral bands, higher resolution and 6-day revisit will benefit science and society.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with several people involved with the next Landsat mission. In Part 1, we’ll hear about how different Landsat Next will be from previous Landsat missions and how its additional spectral bands, higher resolution and 6-day revisit will benefit science and society.
![Mugshot of bearded man with bookshelves behind him and a little white text](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE116_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=qHeL3vRS)
![Mugshot of bearded man with bookshelves behind him and a little white text](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE116_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=qHeL3vRS)
Landsat has documented changes all over the world for over 50 years. Changes in polar regions are happening especially rapidly. But it’s dark in polar regions much of the time. Therefore, a new acquisition scheme is adding more imagery of these dark, polar regions so these changes can be studied in more detail, even in polar twilight.
Landsat has documented changes all over the world for over 50 years. Changes in polar regions are happening especially rapidly. But it’s dark in polar regions much of the time. Therefore, a new acquisition scheme is adding more imagery of these dark, polar regions so these changes can be studied in more detail, even in polar twilight.
![Von Karman Vortices in the Atlantic (Image of the Week) Satellite image of a white mass of clouds with circular dark spots with a title](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Vortices2024.jpg?itok=D3cqSd0H)
On March 3rd, near South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Landsat 9 captured this dream-like image. This natural color view shows a weather pattern known as a “Von Karman vortex street," caused by prevailing winds from the southeast.
On March 3rd, near South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Landsat 9 captured this dream-like image. This natural color view shows a weather pattern known as a “Von Karman vortex street," caused by prevailing winds from the southeast.
![Photo of five women outside a building, with four mugshots and a little text laid on top of the photo](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE115_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=BuXgRWXg)
![Photo of five women outside a building, with four mugshots and a little text laid on top of the photo](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE115_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=BuXgRWXg)
Women have been crucial to the EROS workforce from the very beginning in a variety of areas, from customer service and computers to film processing and administration.
Women have been crucial to the EROS workforce from the very beginning in a variety of areas, from customer service and computers to film processing and administration.
![Mugshot of man wearing glasses outdoors with Eyes on Earth label in the lower left](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE114_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=MDt4xaYS)
![Mugshot of man wearing glasses outdoors with Eyes on Earth label in the lower left](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE114_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=MDt4xaYS)
Typically, we use Landsat data to study changes on the land—you know, Landsat. In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we learn how satellite images and pixels of water, along with actual water samples, are helpful in determining the productivity of lakes across the United States. We talk with Mendenhall Fellow and Research Geographer Dr.
Typically, we use Landsat data to study changes on the land—you know, Landsat. In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we learn how satellite images and pixels of water, along with actual water samples, are helpful in determining the productivity of lakes across the United States. We talk with Mendenhall Fellow and Research Geographer Dr.
![Image of the Week: Ice Routes in Finland Revealed by Landsat A model of a ship on blue background strewn with small, flat white shapes and text](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Finland-Icebreaker.jpg?itok=8vF4TU3W)
Cloud-free satellite views of Lake Saimaa in Finland are rare in January. But this Landsat 9 scene, captured on January 4th, reveals over 200 miles of winter shipping lanes. The water vapor from 3 large wood pulp factories can be seen on this shoreline. One is located in Lappeenranta, where the ice route begins.
Cloud-free satellite views of Lake Saimaa in Finland are rare in January. But this Landsat 9 scene, captured on January 4th, reveals over 200 miles of winter shipping lanes. The water vapor from 3 large wood pulp factories can be seen on this shoreline. One is located in Lappeenranta, where the ice route begins.
![Front entrance of a building with a man's mugshot and title inset on the front lawn](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE113_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=nK20UHBf)
![Front entrance of a building with a man's mugshot and title inset on the front lawn](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE113_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=nK20UHBf)
Terry Sohl helped develop the National Land Cover Database, NLCD, when he first arrived, and now he’s overseeing significant improvements to the widely used product. But that’s just one part of his new role.
Terry Sohl helped develop the National Land Cover Database, NLCD, when he first arrived, and now he’s overseeing significant improvements to the widely used product. But that’s just one part of his new role.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we aim to separate science fiction from science fact when it comes to how Landsat satellites and the EROS Center are portrayed in popular media. To do that, we consulted experts on a range of potential uses, including military, heat signatures, paleontology, and forests.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we aim to separate science fiction from science fact when it comes to how Landsat satellites and the EROS Center are portrayed in popular media. To do that, we consulted experts on a range of potential uses, including military, heat signatures, paleontology, and forests.
![Image of the Week: Landsat Views of Africa's Largest Hydro Dam Photo of water and a dam with title in various colors on top, plus a fish illustration with a word bubble](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/GERD2023_thumbnail.jpg?itok=9AovaJTC)
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is set to become the largest hydroelectric power plant in Africa.
Located near the Sudan border in Ethiopia, the promising and controversial project impacts communities up and down the Blue Nile.
Landsat sensors capture the region in false color infrared, emphasizing the reservoir's boundary.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is set to become the largest hydroelectric power plant in Africa.
Located near the Sudan border in Ethiopia, the promising and controversial project impacts communities up and down the Blue Nile.
Landsat sensors capture the region in false color infrared, emphasizing the reservoir's boundary.
![Eyes on Earth title with microphone silhouette on colorful map background and mugshot](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE111_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=BqAqTPly)
![Eyes on Earth title with microphone silhouette on colorful map background and mugshot](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE111_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=BqAqTPly)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we spoke with Mikael Hiestand, a Mendenhall Postdoctoral Fellow. Using algorithms developed at EROS, Mikael is working on near-term drought forecasting. With synthetic Landsat data, he found that predicting evapotranspiration could be used as a means of drought prediction and monitoring.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we spoke with Mikael Hiestand, a Mendenhall Postdoctoral Fellow. Using algorithms developed at EROS, Mikael is working on near-term drought forecasting. With synthetic Landsat data, he found that predicting evapotranspiration could be used as a means of drought prediction and monitoring.
![A thumbnail for a podcast](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/GIRT_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=N9uYUJfW)
![A thumbnail for a podcast](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/GIRT_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=N9uYUJfW)
First responders need reliable, accurate mapping capabilities as quickly as possible in the wake of a disaster—and they don’t have time to download and organize it.
First responders need reliable, accurate mapping capabilities as quickly as possible in the wake of a disaster—and they don’t have time to download and organize it.
![Image of the Week: Aerial Photos of an Image Archive Poster-type image of Earth in the background, an aerial image of land and a water tower with title/logo](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IOW-Aerial-Image-Archive.jpg?itok=rjhEGQrc)
The home of the Landsat satellite archive is surrounded by corn and soybean fields. The archive is kept at the USGS Earth Resources Observation and Science Center (EROS) located near Sioux Falls, South Dakota. EROS is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
The home of the Landsat satellite archive is surrounded by corn and soybean fields. The archive is kept at the USGS Earth Resources Observation and Science Center (EROS) located near Sioux Falls, South Dakota. EROS is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
![A man's profile in front of a science poster with a microphone being held in front of him and a logo placed on top of him](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/PosterSession_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=pITRWnTe)
![A man's profile in front of a science poster with a microphone being held in front of him and a logo placed on top of him](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/PosterSession_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=pITRWnTe)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we hear from several EROS staff members and university graduate students who took part in our Fall Poster Session. Lively conversations filled the EROS atrium during the hour-long event. Participants got to learn from one another as they shared their work. We talked to a few of them to get quick summaries of their research.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we hear from several EROS staff members and university graduate students who took part in our Fall Poster Session. Lively conversations filled the EROS atrium during the hour-long event. Participants got to learn from one another as they shared their work. We talked to a few of them to get quick summaries of their research.
The Amazon Rainforest in South America typically experiences its drier season between the months of July and October. Satellite imagery from Landsats 9 and 8 show severe drought conditions in 2023 in comparison to 2022 when the area received average rainfall.
The Amazon Rainforest in South America typically experiences its drier season between the months of July and October. Satellite imagery from Landsats 9 and 8 show severe drought conditions in 2023 in comparison to 2022 when the area received average rainfall.
![Portrait of man seated in office smiling with logo superimposed on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE108_thumbnail-900x900_2.png?itok=_YWjO-CY)
![Portrait of man seated in office smiling with logo superimposed on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE108_thumbnail-900x900_2.png?itok=_YWjO-CY)
The Landsat Program is considered the gold standard for satellite Earth-observation imagery. To keep it that way, the USGS EROS Flight Operations Team continually monitors the flight paths of the Landsat satellites to make sure they stay at a consistent 705-kilometer altitude. That means frequently speeding it up to counter the effects of atmospheric drag.
The Landsat Program is considered the gold standard for satellite Earth-observation imagery. To keep it that way, the USGS EROS Flight Operations Team continually monitors the flight paths of the Landsat satellites to make sure they stay at a consistent 705-kilometer altitude. That means frequently speeding it up to counter the effects of atmospheric drag.
![Two men stand by a wall display of a map and explanations, with a logo on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/NLCD_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=6oImSJkE)
![Two men stand by a wall display of a map and explanations, with a logo on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/NLCD_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=6oImSJkE)
The National Land Cover Database (NLCD) has a long history as the definitive U.S. land cover product. But the newer Land Change Monitoring, Assessment and Projection (LCMAP) effort takes a longer look back in time.
The National Land Cover Database (NLCD) has a long history as the definitive U.S. land cover product. But the newer Land Change Monitoring, Assessment and Projection (LCMAP) effort takes a longer look back in time.
Science and Products
![Eyes on Earth thumbnail image for Episode 120 – Mapping the California Coastline showing guest Sean Vitousek on a watercraft](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE120_thumbnail-900x900_0.png?itok=h5RgEFQP)
![Eyes on Earth thumbnail image for Episode 120 – Mapping the California Coastline showing guest Sean Vitousek on a watercraft](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE120_thumbnail-900x900_0.png?itok=h5RgEFQP)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we begin a series on Landsat’s usefulness in coastal studies. First, we talk with Sean Vitousek, a USGS research oceanographer, about changes to beaches in California and how he is using Landsat and other data to create models that can predict how the coastline may change in the future because of sea level rise and coastal erosion.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we begin a series on Landsat’s usefulness in coastal studies. First, we talk with Sean Vitousek, a USGS research oceanographer, about changes to beaches in California and how he is using Landsat and other data to create models that can predict how the coastline may change in the future because of sea level rise and coastal erosion.
The Smokehouse Creek Fire started about 1 mile north of Stinnett, Texas on February 26th, 2024. Three days later, the fire had consumed over 1 million acres. With a total area of 1,654 square miles, it became the largest fire on record in Texas. That's larger than New York's Long Island.
The Smokehouse Creek Fire started about 1 mile north of Stinnett, Texas on February 26th, 2024. Three days later, the fire had consumed over 1 million acres. With a total area of 1,654 square miles, it became the largest fire on record in Texas. That's larger than New York's Long Island.
![Image of EROS Center and Kristi Kline with Eyes on Earth graphic on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE119_thumbnail-900x900_0.png?itok=i9G3DKbz)
![Image of EROS Center and Kristi Kline with Eyes on Earth graphic on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE119_thumbnail-900x900_0.png?itok=i9G3DKbz)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with Kristi Kline about the constant changes and innovations that have been needed at EROS to keep up with changes in computer tech and data processing. Kline has been a part of helping to implement these changes over the past 27 years and is now retiring at the end of May 2024.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with Kristi Kline about the constant changes and innovations that have been needed at EROS to keep up with changes in computer tech and data processing. Kline has been a part of helping to implement these changes over the past 27 years and is now retiring at the end of May 2024.
![Image of Earth with mugshots of three people and a little text overlaid](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE118_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=u2TKAFkd)
![Image of Earth with mugshots of three people and a little text overlaid](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE118_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=u2TKAFkd)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with several people involved with the next Landsat mission, targeted for launch around 2030. While that may seem like a ways into the future, it takes a lot of work to prepare for such a big mission.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with several people involved with the next Landsat mission, targeted for launch around 2030. While that may seem like a ways into the future, it takes a lot of work to prepare for such a big mission.
![Image of the Week: A Warm February in Northern Minnesota A satellite image of a lake beside an image of the Earth, with text on top of the image](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Northern%20Minnesota%20IOW%20thumbnail.png?itok=sIPXDaeV)
Like many lakes in northern Minnesota, Mille Lacs near Brainerd experienced an uncommonly warm winter this year, with lower than average snowfall. Natural color Landsat images from the past ten Februarys reveal a stark change in 2024.
Like many lakes in northern Minnesota, Mille Lacs near Brainerd experienced an uncommonly warm winter this year, with lower than average snowfall. Natural color Landsat images from the past ten Februarys reveal a stark change in 2024.
![Earth surrounded by illustration of satellite passes with a white label and three mugshots overlaying it](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE117_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=NTulMzbe)
![Earth surrounded by illustration of satellite passes with a white label and three mugshots overlaying it](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE117_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=NTulMzbe)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with several people involved with the next Landsat mission. In Part 1, we’ll hear about how different Landsat Next will be from previous Landsat missions and how its additional spectral bands, higher resolution and 6-day revisit will benefit science and society.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we talk with several people involved with the next Landsat mission. In Part 1, we’ll hear about how different Landsat Next will be from previous Landsat missions and how its additional spectral bands, higher resolution and 6-day revisit will benefit science and society.
![Mugshot of bearded man with bookshelves behind him and a little white text](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE116_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=qHeL3vRS)
![Mugshot of bearded man with bookshelves behind him and a little white text](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE116_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=qHeL3vRS)
Landsat has documented changes all over the world for over 50 years. Changes in polar regions are happening especially rapidly. But it’s dark in polar regions much of the time. Therefore, a new acquisition scheme is adding more imagery of these dark, polar regions so these changes can be studied in more detail, even in polar twilight.
Landsat has documented changes all over the world for over 50 years. Changes in polar regions are happening especially rapidly. But it’s dark in polar regions much of the time. Therefore, a new acquisition scheme is adding more imagery of these dark, polar regions so these changes can be studied in more detail, even in polar twilight.
![Von Karman Vortices in the Atlantic (Image of the Week) Satellite image of a white mass of clouds with circular dark spots with a title](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Vortices2024.jpg?itok=D3cqSd0H)
On March 3rd, near South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Landsat 9 captured this dream-like image. This natural color view shows a weather pattern known as a “Von Karman vortex street," caused by prevailing winds from the southeast.
On March 3rd, near South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Landsat 9 captured this dream-like image. This natural color view shows a weather pattern known as a “Von Karman vortex street," caused by prevailing winds from the southeast.
![Photo of five women outside a building, with four mugshots and a little text laid on top of the photo](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE115_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=BuXgRWXg)
![Photo of five women outside a building, with four mugshots and a little text laid on top of the photo](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE115_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=BuXgRWXg)
Women have been crucial to the EROS workforce from the very beginning in a variety of areas, from customer service and computers to film processing and administration.
Women have been crucial to the EROS workforce from the very beginning in a variety of areas, from customer service and computers to film processing and administration.
![Mugshot of man wearing glasses outdoors with Eyes on Earth label in the lower left](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE114_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=MDt4xaYS)
![Mugshot of man wearing glasses outdoors with Eyes on Earth label in the lower left](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE114_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=MDt4xaYS)
Typically, we use Landsat data to study changes on the land—you know, Landsat. In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we learn how satellite images and pixels of water, along with actual water samples, are helpful in determining the productivity of lakes across the United States. We talk with Mendenhall Fellow and Research Geographer Dr.
Typically, we use Landsat data to study changes on the land—you know, Landsat. In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we learn how satellite images and pixels of water, along with actual water samples, are helpful in determining the productivity of lakes across the United States. We talk with Mendenhall Fellow and Research Geographer Dr.
![Image of the Week: Ice Routes in Finland Revealed by Landsat A model of a ship on blue background strewn with small, flat white shapes and text](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/Finland-Icebreaker.jpg?itok=8vF4TU3W)
Cloud-free satellite views of Lake Saimaa in Finland are rare in January. But this Landsat 9 scene, captured on January 4th, reveals over 200 miles of winter shipping lanes. The water vapor from 3 large wood pulp factories can be seen on this shoreline. One is located in Lappeenranta, where the ice route begins.
Cloud-free satellite views of Lake Saimaa in Finland are rare in January. But this Landsat 9 scene, captured on January 4th, reveals over 200 miles of winter shipping lanes. The water vapor from 3 large wood pulp factories can be seen on this shoreline. One is located in Lappeenranta, where the ice route begins.
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![Front entrance of a building with a man's mugshot and title inset on the front lawn](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE113_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=nK20UHBf)
Terry Sohl helped develop the National Land Cover Database, NLCD, when he first arrived, and now he’s overseeing significant improvements to the widely used product. But that’s just one part of his new role.
Terry Sohl helped develop the National Land Cover Database, NLCD, when he first arrived, and now he’s overseeing significant improvements to the widely used product. But that’s just one part of his new role.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we aim to separate science fiction from science fact when it comes to how Landsat satellites and the EROS Center are portrayed in popular media. To do that, we consulted experts on a range of potential uses, including military, heat signatures, paleontology, and forests.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we aim to separate science fiction from science fact when it comes to how Landsat satellites and the EROS Center are portrayed in popular media. To do that, we consulted experts on a range of potential uses, including military, heat signatures, paleontology, and forests.
![Image of the Week: Landsat Views of Africa's Largest Hydro Dam Photo of water and a dam with title in various colors on top, plus a fish illustration with a word bubble](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/GERD2023_thumbnail.jpg?itok=9AovaJTC)
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is set to become the largest hydroelectric power plant in Africa.
Located near the Sudan border in Ethiopia, the promising and controversial project impacts communities up and down the Blue Nile.
Landsat sensors capture the region in false color infrared, emphasizing the reservoir's boundary.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is set to become the largest hydroelectric power plant in Africa.
Located near the Sudan border in Ethiopia, the promising and controversial project impacts communities up and down the Blue Nile.
Landsat sensors capture the region in false color infrared, emphasizing the reservoir's boundary.
![Eyes on Earth title with microphone silhouette on colorful map background and mugshot](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE111_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=BqAqTPly)
![Eyes on Earth title with microphone silhouette on colorful map background and mugshot](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EOE111_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=BqAqTPly)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we spoke with Mikael Hiestand, a Mendenhall Postdoctoral Fellow. Using algorithms developed at EROS, Mikael is working on near-term drought forecasting. With synthetic Landsat data, he found that predicting evapotranspiration could be used as a means of drought prediction and monitoring.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we spoke with Mikael Hiestand, a Mendenhall Postdoctoral Fellow. Using algorithms developed at EROS, Mikael is working on near-term drought forecasting. With synthetic Landsat data, he found that predicting evapotranspiration could be used as a means of drought prediction and monitoring.
![A thumbnail for a podcast](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/GIRT_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=N9uYUJfW)
![A thumbnail for a podcast](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/GIRT_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=N9uYUJfW)
First responders need reliable, accurate mapping capabilities as quickly as possible in the wake of a disaster—and they don’t have time to download and organize it.
First responders need reliable, accurate mapping capabilities as quickly as possible in the wake of a disaster—and they don’t have time to download and organize it.
![Image of the Week: Aerial Photos of an Image Archive Poster-type image of Earth in the background, an aerial image of land and a water tower with title/logo](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/IOW-Aerial-Image-Archive.jpg?itok=rjhEGQrc)
The home of the Landsat satellite archive is surrounded by corn and soybean fields. The archive is kept at the USGS Earth Resources Observation and Science Center (EROS) located near Sioux Falls, South Dakota. EROS is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
The home of the Landsat satellite archive is surrounded by corn and soybean fields. The archive is kept at the USGS Earth Resources Observation and Science Center (EROS) located near Sioux Falls, South Dakota. EROS is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
![A man's profile in front of a science poster with a microphone being held in front of him and a logo placed on top of him](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/PosterSession_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=pITRWnTe)
![A man's profile in front of a science poster with a microphone being held in front of him and a logo placed on top of him](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/PosterSession_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=pITRWnTe)
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we hear from several EROS staff members and university graduate students who took part in our Fall Poster Session. Lively conversations filled the EROS atrium during the hour-long event. Participants got to learn from one another as they shared their work. We talked to a few of them to get quick summaries of their research.
In this episode of Eyes on Earth, we hear from several EROS staff members and university graduate students who took part in our Fall Poster Session. Lively conversations filled the EROS atrium during the hour-long event. Participants got to learn from one another as they shared their work. We talked to a few of them to get quick summaries of their research.
The Amazon Rainforest in South America typically experiences its drier season between the months of July and October. Satellite imagery from Landsats 9 and 8 show severe drought conditions in 2023 in comparison to 2022 when the area received average rainfall.
The Amazon Rainforest in South America typically experiences its drier season between the months of July and October. Satellite imagery from Landsats 9 and 8 show severe drought conditions in 2023 in comparison to 2022 when the area received average rainfall.
![Portrait of man seated in office smiling with logo superimposed on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE108_thumbnail-900x900_2.png?itok=_YWjO-CY)
![Portrait of man seated in office smiling with logo superimposed on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/EoE108_thumbnail-900x900_2.png?itok=_YWjO-CY)
The Landsat Program is considered the gold standard for satellite Earth-observation imagery. To keep it that way, the USGS EROS Flight Operations Team continually monitors the flight paths of the Landsat satellites to make sure they stay at a consistent 705-kilometer altitude. That means frequently speeding it up to counter the effects of atmospheric drag.
The Landsat Program is considered the gold standard for satellite Earth-observation imagery. To keep it that way, the USGS EROS Flight Operations Team continually monitors the flight paths of the Landsat satellites to make sure they stay at a consistent 705-kilometer altitude. That means frequently speeding it up to counter the effects of atmospheric drag.
![Two men stand by a wall display of a map and explanations, with a logo on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/NLCD_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=6oImSJkE)
![Two men stand by a wall display of a map and explanations, with a logo on top](https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/styles/masonry/public/media/images/NLCD_thumbnail-900x900.png?itok=6oImSJkE)
The National Land Cover Database (NLCD) has a long history as the definitive U.S. land cover product. But the newer Land Change Monitoring, Assessment and Projection (LCMAP) effort takes a longer look back in time.
The National Land Cover Database (NLCD) has a long history as the definitive U.S. land cover product. But the newer Land Change Monitoring, Assessment and Projection (LCMAP) effort takes a longer look back in time.