Radar: Synthetic Aperture Radar Data/Images

SIR-C/X -SAR Images

Images of the different areas of the earth generated through SAR carried on the space shuttle are supplied at this site from NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Take the link to Snow, Ice,Glaciers to see some images from Antarctica. Scroll below the images to learn how to interpret them. JPL Images may be used by the public free of charge (see copyright information).

Geography Standard 1: Understands the characteristics and use of maps, globes, and other geographic tools and technologies
Technology Standard 3: Understands the relationship among science, technology, society, and the individual

Using Satellite RADAR Imagery to Study the Polar Regions

SAR images of sea ice in the Beaufort Sea are provided here. There is a good description of what is being seen as well as some images of the extent of the sea ice in the Arctic and Antarctic over 4 months in 1998. These images are provided by the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory and thus may be used by the public free of charge (see copyright information).

Geography Standard 1: Understands the characteristics and use of maps, globes, and other geographic tools and technologies
Physical Science Standard 9: Understands the sources and properties of energy
Technology Standard 3: Understands the relationship among science, technology, society, and the individual

Tour Canada from Space

Pick a site in the Canadian Arctic and look at the images generated by different types of remote sensors. These images are explained well and the science behind the sensors is also quickly explained. This site could be used in earth science or geography classes.

Geography Standard 1: Understands the characteristics and use of maps, globes, and other geographic tools and technologies
Physical Science Standard 9: Understands the sources and properties of energy
Technology Standard 3: Understands the relationship among science, technology, society, and the individual