NASA | Mapping Alaska's Forests

The study, in collaboration with the US Forest Service, aims to survey the Tanana Valley forests in Interior Alaska, which are prone to wildfires and constitute 15% of US forested land. Since the 1950s, 40-50% of this landscape has burned. The study will sample over 80% of burned areas using aerial surveys. Advanced instruments will differentiate live from dead trees by mapping the wilderness's composition and 3D structure. These measurements will help scientists understand fire recovery patterns and set benchmarks for future regional changes.

What is the primary goal of the study conducted with the US Forest Service?

• To prevent wildfires in Interior Alaska

• To build new infrastructure in the forested areas

• To plant new trees in the Tanana Valley

• To conduct a detailed survey of the Tanana Valley forests

What percentage of the Tanana Valley landscape has been burned since the 1950s?

• 10 to 20%

• 60 to 70%

• 30 to 40%

• 40 to 50%

How will the study sample the burned areas of the Tanana Valley?

• By drone

• By foot surveys

• By satellite imagery

• By plane

What technology is used to distinguish live trees from dead ones?

• Satellite GPS

• Infrared cameras

• An instrument mapping the composition and 3D structure

• Thermal imaging

What will the measurements from the study help scientists understand?

• The soil composition of the forests

• The wildlife population in the area

• The patterns of fire recovery and future changes

• The types of trees in the region