Science Meetings

NASA Salinity Communication and Engagement (Poster)
deCharon, A., Lauter, C., and Taylor, L. (23-May-17)

As a NASA pathfinder mission dedicated to public engagement, Aquarius made significant strides in broadening interest in salinity beyond the scientific community. Leveraging the infrastructure and thematic approach developed for Aquarius, new communication and public engagement endeavors are being conducted to align with the following scientific objectives:
  1. Demonstrate clear linkages among ocean surface salinity variability, ocean circulation, Earth’s water cycle, and climate;
  2. Highlight the synergistic value of NASA ocean surface salinity data in the broader context of other satellite and in situ measurements;
  3. Provide insights into salinity variations within the upper water column in terms of environmental processes along with associated implications for “ground truthing” satellite-derived salinity data; and
  4. Share the processes used to retrieve and refine salinity derived from satellite and other methods, including the ongoing efforts to improve data accuracy and consistency.
A variety of technical approaches and methodologies will be employed to reach a range of audiences in targeted, meaningful ways. For example, shareable media with eye-catching graphics and condensed text will be created to support social media campaigns. At the other end of the spectrum, online short courses will be offered to emergent scientists using effective practices that foster collaboration.

All of these outputs and opportunities will be showcased on the new, mobile-friendly “NASA Salinity” website. The activity will also include mining and repurposing other resources, such those generated for the Salinity Processes in the Upper-ocean Regional Study (SPURS) field campaigns. Content will highlight the synergies between satellite and in-water data while addressing concepts about today’s reliance on diverse technologies.

Through close coordination and interaction with the science community, these collective efforts will demonstrate how a better understanding of salinity science – and its ties to ocean circulation, climate, and the water cycle – can benefit society.