ICESat-2

Functionality & Mechanism

Developed by NASA, this application provides orbital predictions for the Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2). The interface facilitates the selection of a location of interest via an interactive map, latitude/longitude entry, or current device coordinates. The system then generates a list and map of future satellite flybys for that location up to three months in advance. The platform enables bookmarking of specific overflights to support planning for direct observation or citizen science campaigns.

Evidence & Research Context

The app supports engagement with the ICESat-2 mission, the scientific basis of which is detailed in associated research.

• The primary scientific objective of the ICESat-2 mission is to quantify elevation changes in ice sheets and sea ice freeboard to understand the cryospheric response to climate change.
• The satellite leverages an advanced laser altimeter system with six beams and single-photon sensitive detectors, enabling a high-resolution 17-meter surface footprint and dense 0.7-meter along-track sampling.
• Its multi-beam pair configuration is specifically designed to determine local cross-track slope, improving elevation change accuracy over complex terrain like coastal outlet glaciers.
• Mission data also supports research in terrestrial ecosystems by measuring vegetation height, land topography, inland water elevations, and atmospheric cloud properties.

Intended Use & Scope

This tool is intended for researchers, educators, and citizen scientists as a planning and public engagement utility. Its primary function is to forecast satellite transit times over specific geographic areas. The application does not provide or analyze the mission's scientific datasets. For access to elevation data, users must consult external repositories such as the National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC).