NASA Earth Science Leader to Discuss Satellites and Science at Scripps Oceanography

WHAT: Michael Freilich, director of NASA's Earth Science Division, will discuss satellite measurement techniques and recent scientific findings that have advanced our knowledge of the role of the oceans in Earth's climate system during the ninth annual Roger Revelle Commemorative Lecture, presented by the Ocean Studies Board, part of the U.S. National Research Council.

A graduate of Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, Freilich will explore the future of satellite oceanography and the potential to forecast ocean conditions in much the same way as we forecast weather today.

THE PRESENTATION IS FREE AND THE PUBLIC IS INVITED.
(Free parking is available at Birch Aquarium at Scripps; shuttles will be provided)

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 28, 2008, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

WHERE: Sumner Auditorium, Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego
8602 La Jolla Shores Dr., La Jolla (one-half block north of El Paseo Grande).

BACKGROUND: Satellite-borne instruments now allow scientists to observe the ocean surface with unprecedented coverage, detail and accuracy. Global measurements of sea-surface temperature, sea level, wind forcing, ocean color and sea ice cover are being obtained by satellites almost routinely. With some records reaching back more than two decades, it is now possible to estimate long-term global and regional trends. Satellite observations have substantially changed the conception of the dynamics and scales of the ocean's physical, chemical and biological properties. Simultaneous measurements from different satellite instruments have helped illuminate the ways in which ocean currents and biology respond to changes in winds and solar energy.

The Revelle Lecture was created by the Ocean Studies Board to honor former Scripps Oceanography Director Roger Revelle for his contributions to ocean sciences and his dedication to making scientific knowledge available to policymakers. Freilich's presentation is the first Revelle Lecture given on both the West and East Coasts. Freilich also will give his presentation on Monday, Feb. 25, at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.

Roger Revelle (1909-1991) was director of Scripps Oceanography from 1951 to 1964. He was one of the nation's most prominent oceanographers and a world leader in the application of science and technology to help solve problems in developing countries. Long associated with the University of California, Revelle's vision and energies led to the establishment of the UC San Diego campus in 1960.