Too Much, Too Little

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

This video describes the joint NASA-JAXA GPM (Global Precipitation Measurement) satellite mission and why it is necessary for monitoring precipitation around the Earth. It discusses the science around the hazards of extreme precipitation such as landslides and drought. It emphasizes the value of comprehensive datasets and their ability to help predict natural disasters.

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Notes from our reviewers

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This video could be a starting point for deeper discussion about how satellites help us monitor precipitation globally. A classroom discussion of precipitation data gaps might be motivation for getting involved in a citizen science project such as CoCoRaHS (the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network). The acronym GPM is used throughout the video but never defined. Teachers should let their students know that it stands for Global Precipitation Measurement.
The resource explains the importance of satellite data to help monitor global precipitation (especially in areas with limited data). Satellite data can help predict drought, landslides, and flooding. Extreme precipitation causes real-world impacts. Passed initial science review - expert science review pending.