Sea ice from space

Investigating Arctic sea ice and its connection to climate

In this set of activities students will investigate Arctic sea ice. They will learn where in the world it is possible to find sea ice and analyse up-to-date and long-term satellite data about sea ice concentration in the Arctic. This activity deals with one of the most important indicators scientists have to study climate change and its possible consequences.

Learning objectives

  • Learn what sea ice is and where it can be found on Earth.
  • Understand the importance of sea ice and its relation to Earth’s climate.
  • Understand how human actions and physical processes interact to influence and change
    landscapes, environments, and the climate.
  • Use tools available on the internet to collect and analyse satellite data.
  • Understand how Earth observation satellites can be used to characterise and monitor sea ice.

Equipment

Ice, computer, internet

Time

30 minutes for each activity

Resource available in

This classroom resource is part of a set of resources developed by ESA’s Education Office in collaboration with ESERO’s.