Digital Earth Watch (DEW)

Plants are like "green canaries"— if they die, then other organisms will likely follow. By measuring the health of plants, we are measuring the environmental conditions that affect all nearby organisms, including humans.

Modern technologies let us monitor plant health using the proportions of light reflected from leaves. Combining this data with our understanding and observations of plant behavior and physiology helps us to quickly assess the quality of the local environment.

DEW brings together biology, physics, chemistry, technology, art, engineering, and math in a project that predominantly supports field studies in middle to high school and self-guided education in environmental science. Many tools such as free software and ideas for activities and student challenge questions are provided on this website.

DEW is a product of the NASA grant project Measuring Vegetation Health (MVH).

Explore activities and resources for
Digital Earth Watch:

SCIENCE OF PLANTS

SCIENCE OF
LIGHT  

TOOLS & TECHNOLOGIES

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING