July 22, 1998:
Scientists Extend Studies Using GLOBE Data
Since 1995, GLOBE students have been engaged in assisting the scientific community and expanding their own knowledge of the Earth by regularly taking and reporting environmental data at their schools. Based on the recent recommendations of a National Science Foundation (NSF) peer review panel, GLOBE students will continue observations in atmosphere, hydrology, soils, and land cover/biology. Over the next few years, several new measurements will be added to the Program.GLOBE students will continue working with Dr. Susan Postawko from the University of Oklahoma by reporting daily maximum, minimum, and current temperature readings and precipitation measurements. Dr. Paul Ruscher from Florida State University joins GLOBE's atmospheric team and will be working with students in their identification of cloud cover and type.
In the hydrology field, GLOBE students will also continue collaboration with Dr. Roger Bales by collecting data on surface water temperature, pH, conductivity, alkalinity, transparency, dissolved oxygens, and nitrates. Dr. Bales and his colleagues will also develop a protocol for measurement of water macroinvertebrates.
Dr. Elissa Levine from NASA Goddard Space Flight Center continues her work with GLOBE student data on soil characterization, with Dr. Jim Washburne of the University of Arizona overseeing studies of soil temperature, moisture, and infiltration. . In the area of land cover/biology studies, students will continue assisting scientists from the University of New Hampshire by classifying the dominant vegetation in their study sites and monitoring ground and canopy cover over time. Dr. Russell Congalton, principal investigator at UNH, reports that GLOBE students are already helping scientists more precisely verify land cover.
The new GLOBE measurements will be announced the week of July 27, 1998.