Thermal Lens: Reflecting on ASTER's 23+ Years in Orbit

Those Space People

The ASTER (Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer) instrument has been in space for nearly 25 years, riding aboard the Terra satellite. As the satellite's orbit gradually descends, we've taken the opportunity to explore the instrument's legacy, the insights gained from its mission, and its significant contributions to the advancement of thermal remote sensing. This episode delves into the origins of the ASTER mission, its pivotal role in shaping the field of thermal remote sensing, and the potential directions for future developments in the field.

Our guest, Michael Abrams, serves as the Science Team Lead for the ASTER mission at NASA JPL. With almost half a century of experience in thermal remote sensing, Michael has been at the helm of the ASTER mission for over two decades. His background in geology and his involvement in the development of new remote sensing instruments at NASA JPL make him a true veteran in the field.