The Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) is a space-based observatory designed to provide early warning of potentially harmful solar events and to continuously monitor the Earth’s climate. The satellite was launched on February 11, 2015, and is operated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
DSCOVR consists of three instruments: the Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUVSE), the Solar Wind Electron Analyzer (SWEA), and the PlasMag instrument. The FUVSE is designed to measure the solar wind speed and composition in order to better understand the Sun-Earth connection. The SWEA will study how solar wind affects Earth’s magnetosphere. And finally, PlasMag will image Earth’s plasma environment near our planet.
DSCOVR will provide scientists with valuable data that can be used to improve our understanding of space weather and its impact on both human technology and life on Earth. In addition, DSCOVR will enable us to monitor global climate change in near-real-time, providing critical information for policy makers as they work to mitigate and adapt to this important issue.