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RE: SMAP measurements

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Brian Andrew Campbell, modified 9 Years ago.
Youngling Posts: 18 Join Date: 11/20/12 Recent Posts
Hi Maria,

Sorry, there was a technical glitch on the GLOBE side and we couldn't respond to your comment until now. My name is Brian Campbell and I am on the SMAP side of things with NASA.

Here are a few answers to your questions:

You can take these samples in the early morning, each day, at approximately 9:00 A.M. local time (ideally within a 6 hour window – from 3 hours before to 3 hours after 9:00 A.M. local time) will allow for optimal comparison with the SMAP data as this is closer to the SMAP time of acquisition.

If you cannot take the measurements each day, you can use the LaRC Satellite Overpass Tool (http://cloudsgate2.larc.nasa.gov/cgi-bin/predict/predict.cgi) and take measurements when the satellite is more directly over your area. This tool is very technical. What you would look for after you put in your information is the section under (GMT for timing and Distance To Site) These will tell you the date and time and where the satellite will be.

If your class does not meet until later in the day (late morning or early afternoon), you can still take measurements using the SMAP Block Pattern Soil. All data that you take is valuable for the GLOBE Program and the SMAP Mission.


As far as the drying, if you are using a soil drying oven, overnight will be enough time to dry the samples. If you are using an infrared heat lamp, 24 hours-48 hours should be sufficient drying time to achieve constant mass.

Brian
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Maria Pia Coceano, modified 9 Years ago.
Youngling Posts: 2 Join Date: 9/6/12 Recent Posts
Hi Brian
thank you for answering my questions.
From today we'll measure soil moisture at approximately 9:00 A.M. local time. I hope this activity will engage my students in caring for environment.
Maria Pia
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John Harlin, modified 9 Years ago.
Youngling Posts: 6 Join Date: 4/18/14 Recent Posts
Hi Brian,

It seems that you're answering a different set of questions from Maria's. Interesting answers, but I'd also be interested in her questions. Will ask my own in a separate post.

I'm at the Leysin American School in Switzerland.

--John Harlin
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Brian Andrew Campbell, modified 9 Years ago.
Youngling Posts: 18 Join Date: 11/20/12 Recent Posts
John,

The answers I provided were directed to Maria's questions.

Brian
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John Harlin, modified 9 Years ago.
Youngling Posts: 6 Join Date: 4/18/14 Recent Posts
Sorry Brian, you're right. I'd missed the drying oven response below. Was too focused on the Satellite Overpass Tool. I tried to use that last fall and it was way over my head (so to speak...). But it seems like if we measure in the morning that's good enough, eh?

Thanks,
john
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Brian Andrew Campbell, modified 9 Years ago.
Youngling Posts: 18 Join Date: 11/20/12 Recent Posts
Hello Maria,

I see that you have begun taking measurements. Is there anything you want to share about how your students are taking the measurements?

Brian