Why Measure Rain and Snow?

Rain, snow, and other forms of precipitation affect every part of life on Earth. Rain falls on the crops we eat, fills the reservoirs of water we drink, and is an integral part of everyday weather and long term climate trends. This website, presented by NASA’s Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission, provides students and educators with resources to learn about Earth’s water cycle, weather and climate, and the technology and societal applications of studying them.

Global Precipitation Measurement

GPM Logo: Global Precipitation Measurement

GPM is an international satellite mission that will use multiple satellites orbiting Earth to collect rain, snow and other precipitation data worldwide every three hours. In 2014, NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) will launch a Core Observatory satellite carrying advanced instruments that will improve upon today’s precipitation-measuring capabilities and is designed to bring all the data from the partner satellites into a unified global dataset. 

Precipitation Education

Website Highlights

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Anime Competition

Students around the world are invited to submit sketches and profiles for a GPM anime character. Students must incorporate aspects of GPM’s science and engineering themes into their character. Ready-made teaching materials will accompany this activity. The winning character will be featured in a water-cycle filled adventure.

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Faces of GPM

Learn about the exciting and diverse team that works with the GPM mission. Watch interviews with scientists and engineers to get a face-to-face perspective on careers in science and technology.

GPM Original Resources

This is a collection of all the original videos, articles, lesson plans,  and other educational resources that have been developed by the GPM staff.