SMAP: SMAP to predict the of drought severity

SMAP: Soil Moisture Active Passive

Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) satellite, which is in recent news was developed by the NASA scientists, including one of Indian-origin. It is scheduled to be launched in November 2014, to collect the local data of agricultural and water managers that are needed worldwide.

SMAP uses two microwave instruments to monitor the top 2 inches of soil on Earth’s surface. Together, the instruments create soil moisture estimates with a resolution of about 6 miles (9 kilometers), mapping the entire globe every two or three days.
The SMAP’s Measurements are used to develop improved flood predictions and drought monitoring capability and also quantifies net carbon flux in boreal landscapes.

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