The Geophysical Institute’s Alaska Satellite Facility will celebrate 20 years since the first downlink of images from an earth-observing synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite by hosting an Open House. The public is invited to tour facilities used for the acquisition, storage, processing and distribution of data acquired from polar-orbiting satellites, and to learn why satellite-borne earth observation is critical for monitoring change.
Scientists from ASF will provide short talks on a variety of subjects related to the principles and use of remote-sensing technologies. Tours will include visits to one of two satellite receiving antennas used at ASF, to the antenna control room operations center, and to the Alaska Volcano Observatory remote-sensing room.
A variety of activities offered will include:
- Build a satellite and antenna hat
- Learn how radar works
- Look at glaciers, then & now
- Create a tornado
- Face painting
Displays will include the Geophysical Institute’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, earthquake and volcano demonstrations, and a satellite-calibration corner reflector.
When: Saturday, August 20
Where: Elvey and Akasofu Buildings, UAF West Ridge
Time: 10 am - 3 pm
Cost: Free