Researchers create open database for global water cycle satellite data
Scientists have launched an open database that standardizes decades of satellite measurements tracking Earth's water isotopes.
Satellite missions measure water vapor globally
Eight different satellite missions have collected data on water vapor since 2002. These instruments measure the specific ratio of heavy to light water isotopes around the planet.
Combining datasets proved difficult for scientists
Each satellite was designed to answer slightly different questions, resulting in varied data types. Mampi Sarkar from Rice University noted that cleaning and comparing these sets could take a year.
New tool simplifies water research
The new database allows researchers to access this giant collection without labor-intensive manual work. Scientists can now easily use the standardized information to study how water travels across the globe.
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