NASA launches PREFIRE mission to explore polar regions

NASA has successfully launched the first of two research satellites as part of the Polar Radiant Energy in the Far-InfraRed Experiment (PPLFIRE) mission. The satellite is designed to study Earth's polar regions by measuring the amount of heat lost to space from the Arctic and Antarctica. The data collected will help scientists better understand how water vapor, clouds, and other elements of Earth’s atmosphere trap heat and prevent it from radiating into space. This information is expected to refine climate models and improve predictions related to sea levels, weather patterns, snow, and ice cover. The launch date for the second satellite will be announced shortly.

Separately, NASA's first crewed mission on the Boeing Starliner craft has been delayed due to a minor helium leak in one of the 28 thruster jets. The mission, which also aims to enhance the understanding of atmospheric heat trapping, will proceed once the issue is resolved.