Object Details
Manufacturer
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Summary
The Coastal Zone Color Scanner (CZCS) was a multi-channel scanning radiometer that flew on the Nimbus 7 satellite, operating from 1978 to 1986. The CZCS provided the first space-based measurements of ocean properties on a global scale.
The instrument measured reflected solar energy in six wavelengths, at a resolution of 800 meters. These measurements allowed researchers to map ocean chlorophyll concentrations, sediment distribution, salinity, and the temperature of coastal waters and ocean currents. It also stimulated international efforts to understand the ocean's role in the carbon cycle and assisted in creating models of the Earth's climate system.
This object is a flight spare, transferred from NASA to the Museum in 2017.
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Goddard Space Flight Center
Inventory Number
A20181288000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
INSTRUMENTS-Scientific
Materials
Aluminum, copper, plastic
Dimensions
Overall: 40.6 w × 55.9 h × 81.3 l cm (1 ft. 4 in. × 1 ft. 10 in. × 2 ft. 8 in.)
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Location
National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC
Exhibition
One World Connected
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A20181288000