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Striking images from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer on NASA’s Terra satellite show just how massive the snowpack was.

The photo on the left, from NASA’s Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer, shows the state on Aug. 16, 2022.

The equipment included a spectroradiometer, which provides readings from the tree canopy to detect types of bark, leaves, lichen and habitats for forest animals.

Another instrument aboard the satellite, the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer, contributes to a warning system that can detect the presence of fire in remote areas.

For example, the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer uses two satellites that detect active fire and burned areas, then sends geographic information systems on Earth the coordinates of the spots.