Which is the satellite Terra able to do?
A) Monitor the movement of comets and meteorites
B) Monitor seismic activity on the moon
C) Monitor the orbit of Mars
D) Monitor volcanic eruptions on Earth
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is D) Monitor volcanic eruptions on Earth.
Terra is a satellite launched by NASA in December 1999 as part of the Earth Observing System (EOS). Its primary purpose is to monitor and collect data about Earth’s climate and environment. Terra is equipped with various instruments that can monitor atmospheric, oceanic, and land surface conditions. Among its major capabilities is the ability to monitor volcanic eruptions on Earth, as it observes land changes, including thermal emissions and ash plumes.
One of the key instruments on Terra is the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). This instrument is highly effective in detecting thermal anomalies, including those caused by volcanic eruptions. It can capture images in different spectrums, including infrared, which allows for the detection of heat from active volcanoes, even through smoke or ash. This data is critical for monitoring volcanic activity and understanding its impact on the environment, including how eruptions affect air quality, weather patterns, and climate.
Another instrument aboard Terra, the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER), provides high-resolution images of Earth’s surface, which helps in tracking volcanic activity and studying the effects of eruptions. This is vital for disaster response and for scientists studying the geological changes caused by volcanic events.
In summary, Terra’s main function is to monitor various aspects of Earth’s systems, including volcanic eruptions, through its advanced imaging systems. The satellite is not designed to observe comet movements, seismic activity on the moon, or the orbit of Mars. Instead, its focus is primarily on Earth-based phenomena like volcanic eruptions, land surface changes, and environmental monitoring.