NASA Studies Snow At The Winter Olympics

The video discusses the 2018 Winter Olympics held in a rugged mountain range, ideal for both the games and NASA's snow study. NASA, part of the ICEPOP project, uses ground instruments to validate satellite data and improve snowstorm predictions. The project aims to fill knowledge gaps in the water cycle, crucial for the 1/6 of the world's population relying on snow for water. Ground validation helps ensure satellite data accuracy, while forecasting models provide real-time predictions for Olympic venues. The collaboration enhances scientific understanding of snow and its global impact.

What makes the location of the 2018 Winter Olympics ideal for NASA's snow study?

• Its low altitude

• Its tropical climate

• Its complex and rugged mountain range

• Its proximity to the equator

What is the primary goal of the ICEPOP project?

• To train athletes for the Winter Olympics

• To promote tourism in South Korea

• To study the characteristics of snow in Pyeongchang

• To improve the design of winter sports equipment

Why is ground validation important in understanding snow on a global scale?

• It helps in designing better snowboards

• It ensures that satellite data matches ground observations

• It reduces the cost of satellite launches

• It increases the speed of data transmission

How does NASA's GPM contribute to the study of snow?

• By organizing international snowball fights

• By providing global maps of rain and snow every 30 minutes

• By launching new satellites every year

• By measuring the temperature of the Earth's core

What is the purpose of NASA's real-time research forecast models during the Olympics?

• To train athletes in snowboarding

• To provide weather forecasts for Olympic venues

• To monitor the health of athletes

• To predict the winners of the games