Cool Facts
Two main types. Polar orbiting satellites travel over Earth's North and South Poles and circle the planet several times a day. Geostationary satellites stay in the same spot above the equator and watch one area constantly.
Eyes in space. Weather satellites have special cameras and sensors that can see clouds, measure temperature, track storms, and even detect where rain is falling. They help weatherpeople predict what's coming so we can prepare.
Climate detectives. These satellites don't just predict tomorrow's weather. They also collect information about Earth's climate over many years, helping scientists understand if our planet is warming or changing.
Storm trackers. Weather satellites can spot dangerous storms like hurricanes and tornadoes hours or days before they arrive, giving people time to get to safety.
Modern science tool. Without weather satellites, weather forecasts would be much less accurate and scientists would know far less about how Earth's weather and climate work.