NASA just launched a new satellite that seeks to investigate and measure the overall impacts on America of rising sea levels. The new satellite may be an indication that the previous one was unable to fully measure the actual effects of increased ocean depth in America. To understand why NASA invested a massive amount of money to launch a new satellite, we must first understand the ramifications of sea levels rising.
Analyzing the causes of the sea levels rising relentlessly in America
The relentless rise of sea levels is a growing area of concern in America, considering the potential long-term effects that it could have. America continues to be one of the biggest fossil fuel producers in the world, and although this is profitable from the perspective of the energy industry, it is the primary reason for rising sea levels in the country.
The burning of fossil fuels, which occurs on a regular basis in America, leads to global warming, which consequently causes sea levels to rise relentlessly. Global warming causes thermal expansion, and when water becomes warm, it expands significantly, thus causing a rise in sea levels. Burning fossil fuels daily also causes glaciers and ice to melt, before proceeding to occupy the oceans and raise the sea levels. Although most people might not fathom or consider this, the relentless rise of sea levels is a threat not only to the environment but also to humanity.
NASA launches a new satellite to track the impact of rising coastal water depth in America
On November 17, SpaceX Falcon 9 launched a Sentinel-6B satellite following a billion-dollar partnership between NASA and multiple European organizations. The main objective of the satellite is to track the ocean levels from above continuously. NASA and its European partners have been committed to this mission for decades. Launching the satellite in 2025 could signal that the concern surrounding coastal ocean water depth is higher than ever. Geologists and other environmental experts are limited in how they measure rising sea levels, so the new satellite is an essential addition that can assist in recording accurate information.
What are the impacts of sea levels rising relentlessly in America?
Rising sea levels pose many different threats that could affect both human beings and the environment. For instance, higher sea levels perfectly complement storms to make them more powerful and capable of causing more damage. Previous storms, such as Hurricane Katrina, were reported as being more powerful because of the elevated sea levels. Higher coastal water levels also make regions liable to heavy flooding. Weather Officer William Harbin stated that “California has been one of the wettest places in the United States this weekend,” which is unusual for the West Coast region and might have made the launch of a new satellite even more urgent.
The bigger picture: How could NASA’s new satellite mitigate the problem?
Although NASA might steal all the shine for this new satellite, it is worth highlighting that this is a global collaboration between America and Europe. The SpaceX Falcon 9 lifted off from Vandenberg Base at 12:21 a.m. Eastern, marking the beginning of what could turn out to be a crucial project in coping with rising sea levels. The satellite could play a significant part in compelling America to turn toward clean energy production to reduce global warming. Furthermore, it also makes it easier to prepare for and anticipate the floods that occur as a result of high sea levels.
Whether on its own or with collaborators, NASA always finds a way to be part of groundbreaking projects. The Sentinel-6B could go on to shape the future of multiple generations in relation to how they seek to combat the rising sea levels. For America, the new satellite signals the start of something that might persuade other countries to explore, but first, the whole world awaits to view how successful the new satellite will be.
