Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

NASA's ICESat-2 Celebrates 2 Trillion Laser Pulses Milestone

3/16/2025

31 3

Summary

Story summary

NASA's ICESat-2 satellite has just celebrated a remarkable milestone by firing its 2 trillionth laser pulse! Since its launch in 2018, this groundbreaking satellite has been crucial in monitoring ice elevation, forests, and ocean floors, delivering vital climate data. With its ATLAS instrument in top shape, the mission could continue into the 2030s, further advancing our understanding of climate change.

1 of 1

Story summary

NASA's ICESat-2 satellite has just celebrated a remarkable milestone by firing its 2 trillionth laser pulse! Since its launch in 2018, this groundbreaking satellite has been crucial in monitoring ice elevation, forests, and ocean floors, delivering vital climate data. With its ATLAS instrument in top shape, the mission could continue into the 2030s, further advancing our understanding of climate change.