About Windows on Earth
The groundwork for Windows on Earth was funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) as an innovative museum exhibit and web site. That core project was conceived and developed by TERC, an educational non-profit, to support public engagement and learning about Earth. It uses a robust Earth visualization engine developed by GeoFusion and comprehensive digital Earth imagery derived from satellites and integrated by WorldSat.
Because Windows on Earth presents such a realistic simulation of the Earth as seen from space, new possibilities for its use are being explored. Phase II involves adapting it for use as an orbital tool by astronauts and extending its education and public outreach impact. The Association of Space Explorers (with its membership of over 300 astronauts and cosmonauts from 32 countries) helps us coordinate astronaut involvement and flight logistics.
Read more in the Window on Earth brochure
Partners
Association of Space Explorers—an international nonprofit professional and educational organization of over 300 individuals from 32 nations who have flown in space. Founded in 1985, ASE's mission is to provide a forum for professional dialogue among individuals who have flown in space, support space science and exploration for the benefit of all, promote education in science and engineering, foster greater environmental awareness, and encourage international cooperation in the human exploration of space.
TERC—an educational non-profit, based in Cambridge, MA, that specializes in innovative approaches to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. Its Center for Earth and Space Science Education (CESSE) focuses on revolutionary approaches to Earth and space science education that feature Earth as a dynamic, globally-integrated system, and taps into the power of the space-age perspective and powerful visualization tools.
NSF—Windows on Earth was funded by NSF Informal Science Education, grant #DRL-0515528. All opinions, findings, conclusions and recommendations expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the National Science Foundation.
- National Science Foundation funds the ongoing development of the Windows on Earth project
- Geofusion developed the Earth visualization engine
- WorldSat provides the global imagery
- Challenger Learning Centers provides educational outreach
- Astronaut Richard Garriott will carry the software to the ISS and take photos of Earth
- NASA JSC manages the Earth observation program
