NASA will launch on Wednesday a satellite capable of analyzing airborne pollutants from volcanoes, forest fires, vehicles and commercial smokestacks.
The Glory satellite will be put in orbit at about 440 miles where it will measure particles called aerosols that are responsible for creating haze and contributing to global warming. The information Glory collects is expected to help scientists better understand the effect of aerosols on the climate.
Glory will remain in orbit taking measurements for at least three years. It will also be used to monitor changes in solar activity which may affect climate.
The satellite’s name comes from the atmospheric phenomenon where sunlight is scattered by cloud particles creating a halo effect.
