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Science

Science Overview
NISAR will measure Earth’s changing ecosystems, dynamic surface, and ice masses, providing information about biomass, natural hazards, sea level rise, and groundwater.

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Solid Earth Observations
NISAR will measure surface deformation to determine the likelihood of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides, and monitor groundwater, hydrocarbon, and sequestered CO2 reservoirs.
Illuminating Earth's Dynamic Surface and Interior



Cryosphere Observations
NISAR will determine how climate and ice masses interrelate and raise sea level and will measure changes in sea ice, snow extent, permafrost, and surface melting.

Understanding Earth's Cold Regions



Ecosystem Observations

NISAR will determine the contribution of Earth's biomass to the global carbon budget and characterize ecosystem disturbance and impacts on biodiversity.

Monitoring and Managing Our Terrestrial Ecosystems



Water Observations

NISAR will measure aquifer extent and change over the Earth's vulnerable water systems.

Water: Sustaining Life

Science White Papers:
Earth Surface and Interior (PDF, 929 KB)
Cryosphere (PDF, 646 KB)
Ecosystems (PDF, 1.4 MB)
Water (PDF, 817 KB)
Sensing Our Changing Earth (PDF, 1.2 MB)
All White Papers (bundled in single file) (PDF, 4.25 MB)