Satellites for health.

A two-year National Research Council study released in January 2007 states that 17 new Earth-observing satellite missions need to be funded over the next decade if important data on climate change, hurricanes, and shifting drought and rainfall patterns are to be gathered. The landmark report sets forth the actions deemed most crucial by a 100-member panel of scientists for NASA and NOAA over the next 10 years. Panel cochair Richard Anthes said a $10 per capita investment in Earth-observing projects would pay for itself exponentially by improving weather forecasts, resource management, and hurricane preparedness. NASA's budget for satellite measurements and analysis has been cut by more than 30% over the past five years.

edited by Erin E. Dooley