Activity #2:
Surface Temperature Comparison, January 1990 vs June 1990

In this activity, you can view the Earth from the unique perspective of outer space. You will examine monthly snapshots (or global datasets) of our planet’s surface and atmosphere. During this activity, you will investigate the seasonal change in the Earth’s surface temperature by looking for patterns and changes over time. You will make connections to global environmental issues.

Background:
By precisely measuring the radiant energy emitted from Earth's surface, satellites can determine temperature at the surface-atmosphere boundary. Surface temperature influences the rate at which water evaporates, as well as wind and precipitation patterns and the formation of clouds. (Data from TIROS Operational Vertical Sounder [TOVS])

To rotate the globe you can either click and hold your mouse on the image and drag in whichever direction you wish, or you can use the arrow keys on the keyboard to navigate the globe.

Questions:

1. Compare and contrast surface temperature patterns of the two spheres.
    
    
2. Why do surface temperatures at the equator remain relatively constant, while surface temperatures of the two hemispheres change?
    
    

Links:

1. Why Isn’t the Earth Hot as an Oven? (http://Earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Library/Oven/)
    
2. TIROS Operational Vertical Sounder (http://daac.gsfc.nasa.gov/DATASET_DOCS/tovs_dataset.html)
    
3. Global Temperature Trends: Continued Warmth in 1999 (http://Earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Study/GlobalWarm1999/)
    
4. Climate Clues in the Ice (http://Earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Study/ClimateClues/)
    

next activity (#3): Comparing 1km² fires to precipitation during the period from April 1992 to December 1993
previous activity (#1): Comparing ozone levels in October 1979 to those in October 2000