atmosphere
general
Earth's AtmosphereMarshall Space Flight Center, NASA
The Ozone Hole TourCentre for Atmospheric Science, Cambridge University
University of Cambridge, Britain
University of Cambridge, Britain
Scripps CO2 ProgramThis web site serves both as a tribute to Charles David Keeling, who was the first person to document the rise in Carbon Dioxide concentration, and provides access to products of the Scripps CO2 Program based at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California. Current results, including data sets and graphics, are available here from the ongoing program to measure CO2 and related species.Scripps CO2 Program
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
clouds
WW 2010WW2010 (the weather world 2010 project) is a WWW framework for integrating current and archived weather data with multimedia instructional resources using new and innovative technologies. Department of Atmospheric Sciences (DAS) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
hurricanes
Tropical Prediction Center: National Hurricane CenterNational Weather Service, NOAA
ozone
The Ozone Hole TourCentre for Atmospheric Science, Cambridge University
University of Cambridge, Britain
University of Cambridge, Britain
Ozone DepletionWithin this area you'll find information about the science of ozone depletion, information about the regulatory approach to protecting the ozone layer, and information on alternatives to ozone-depleting substances, ...U.S. EPA
Ground-level OzoneSummary of the sources, causes, and effects of ozone near the ground.Air Quality Planning & Standards, U.S. EPA
Deadly SmogThe Donora Smog Disaster, London: The Big Smoke, and Los Angeles: Welcome to Car Land - three vignettes about poor air quality due to smog.NOW: with Bill Moyers, KPBS
Simple Test for Ozone Lung DamageNovember 27, 2003, BBC News, World Edition
basic science tools
biology
USDA PLANTS DatabaseThe PLANTS Database is a single source of standardized information about plants. This database focuses on vascular plants, mosses, liverworts, hornworts, and lichens of the U.S. and its territories. The PLANTS Database includes names, checklists, automated tools, identification information, species abstracts, distributional data, crop information, plant symbols, plant growth data, plant materials information, plant links, references, and other plant information. PLANTS reduces costs by minimizing duplication and making information exchange possible across agencies and disciplines.United States Department of Agriculture
chemistry
Isotopic Analysis of Teeth and Bones Solves a Mesoamerican MysteryCase where isotopes help to solve an archaeological mystery - Where did the remarkably successful ruler of Copán, Yax K'uk Mo, originate? Yax K'uk Mo is credited with transforming Copan from "a modest village" to "among the most accomplished Maya cities in art, architexture, and astronomy."Physics Today, Volume 57, Number 1, January 2004, pages 20-21.
chemistry - basic tools
Periodic Table of the ElementsOperated by the University of California for the U.S. Department of EnergyLos Alamos National Laboratory
Web ElementsMark Winter, University of Sheffield, England
General Chemistry I: A Virtual TextbookLook in the lecture notes!Michael Blaber, Florida State University
chemistry applications
earth science
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)Main link to all USGS resources.U.S. Geological Survey, US Department of the Interior
geography and mapping
ESRIInternet mapping demos collected by ESRI, makers of ArcView and Arcinfo.
Globe Project: Global Land One-km Base Elevationmaps pagekm Base Elevation Land elevation maps for the globe. See the maps pageGlobe Project, NOAA National Data Centers, NGDC
GTOPO30Global elevation data you can download and use. For advanced use, Linux workstation compatible.Globe Project, NOAA National Data Centers, NGDC
math and statistics
Math ForumDrexel University
physics
Electromagnetic SpectrumImagine the Universe, NASA
Lecture Notes - Dr. Philip BlancoPhysics 2D - Modern Physics: Relativity and Quantum MechanicsPhilip Blanco, UCSD
units and time
How many?Everything you wanted to know about scientific units of measurement.Russ Rowlett and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The NIST Reference on Constants, Units, and UncertaintyNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
The Official U.S. TimeCurrent time across the U.S.National Institute of Standards and Technology
Time & Freqency Division, NIST and Time Service Department, US Naval Observatory
Time & Freqency Division, NIST and Time Service Department, US Naval Observatory
Time Service Department"The Official Source of Time for the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Global Positioning System (GPS), and a Standard of Time for the United States."US Naval Observatory
biosphere
general
Animal Diversity WebAn online database of animal natural history, distribution, classification, and conservation biology at the University of Michigan.University of Michigan Museum of Zoology
Tree of Life Web ProjectA collaborative Internet project containing information about phylogeny and biodiversityDavid R. Maddison
David R. Maddison, et al.
David R. Maddison, et al.
Programs and Research, Arizona-Sonora Desert MuseumIncludes information comparing types of southwest deserts and images.Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
biodiversity
Center for Marine Biodiversity and ConservationScripps Institution of Oceanography
Center for Biodiversity and ConservationAmerican Museum of Natural History
bioluminescence
The Bioluminescence Web PageCase, J. F., 2000
Haddock, S. H. D., McDougall, C. M.
Haddock, S. H. D., McDougall, C. M.
Luxgene.comThis is an educational website, created to provide information, experimental data, images and animations of bioluminescent organisms in action.Luxgene
carbon cycle
cell
How Cells Divide: Mitosis vs. MeiosisAn interactive website with basic information.NOVA Online, KPBS
CELLS alive!This website represents over 25 years of experience capturing film and computer-enhanced images of living cells and organisms for education and medical research. A stock video library provides producers with a range of subjects, and includes both live recording and computer animation. A variety of immune cells, bacteria, parasites, and aquatic organisms are available for licensing for educational, broadcast, and commercial use.James A. Sullivan, Quill Graphics
A Microscopists' View of Chromosome OrganizationImages of genetic material including chromosomes and chromatin.Gwen V. Childs, University of Texas Medical Branch
Genomics 101: A PrimerOak Ridge National Laboratory, Department of Energy
Genome: The Secret of How Life WorksAn interactive website with basic information for kids.Pfizer
Pfizer, Inc.
Pfizer, Inc.
NOVA: Cracking the Code of LifeNOVA Online, KPBS
Genomics and Its Impact on Science and Society: The Human Genome Project and BeyondBasic information about the genome and related topics.Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Department of Energy
U.S. Department of Energy Human Genome Project
U.S. Department of Energy Human Genome Project
Human Genome Project InformationOak Ridge National Laboratory, Department of Energy
Facts About Genome SequencingOak Ridge National Laboratory, Department of Energy
chemistry
chemosynthesis
Nova: Into the AbyssSite follows researchers at sea as they work to bring a piece of the mid-ocean ridge back to the surface from the Juan de Fuca Ridge in the North Pacific.NOVA Online
Life with Toxic SulfideAccess Excellence, Alissa Arp
This Whale's (After) LifeWhat happens when a dead whale falls to the bottom of the sea? Find out what "biological oceanographer Craig Smith of the University of Hawaii and his research associates, including graduate student Amy Baco: observed in the Santa Cruz Basin offshore California.by Julie Zeidner Russo, NOAA's Undersea Research Program
ecosystems
coral reefs
NOAA's Coral Reef Information SystemA single point of access to NOAA coral reef information and data products, especially those derived from NOAA's Coral Reef Initiative Program.NOAA
About Coral ReefsCoral reefs are complex, biologically diverse ecosystems. Countless studies, books and papers have been devoted to exploring and understanding the nature of these unique marine environments. These four essays discuss some of the most important aspects of coral reefs. Many of their physical and biological characteristics are discussed in detail. Coral reef threats, both natural and anthropogenic, also are explored.Coral Reef Information System, NOAA
Coral ReefsTwo sections devoted to learning about coral reefs: an online tutorial, and an educational roadmap to resources. The Coral Tutorial is an overview of the biology of and threats to coral reefs. The tutorial is rich in substance and is presented in easy-to-understand language. It is made up of 11 "chapters" or pages (plus a reference page) that can be read in sequence by clicking on the arrows at the top or bottom of each chapter page. The tutorial includes many illustrative and interactive graphics to visually enhance the learning process. The Roadmap to Resources complements the information highlighted in the tutorial. The roadmap directs you to specific coral data offerings within the NOS and NOAA family of products.National Ocean Service, NOAA
Coral Reef EcologyDr. Dustan's lab pageDr. Phillip Dustan, Department of Biology, University of Charleston
Coral Reef Protection: a Watershed ApproachGeneral information and links to other resources with a focus on U.S. reefs.Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Water, Oceans and Coastal Protection Division
evolution
Understanding EvolutionAn evolution website for teachers.Museum of Paleontology, University of California, Berkeley
EvolutionA co-production of the WGBH/NOVA Science Unit and Clear Blue Sky Productions on KPBS
genes
How Cells Divide: Mitosis vs. MeiosisAn interactive website with basic information.NOVA Online, KPBS
Genome: The Secret of How Life WorksAn interactive website with basic information for kids.Pfizer
Pfizer, Inc.
Pfizer, Inc.
Genomics and Its Impact on Science and Society: The Human Genome Project and BeyondBasic information about the genome and related topics.Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Department of Energy
U.S. Department of Energy Human Genome Project
U.S. Department of Energy Human Genome Project
DOE: Genomes.orgGenome programs of the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science - founder of the Human Genome Project and leader in systems biology research.Office of Biological and Environmental Research, U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science
global change
Global ChangeGeneral information covering these topics - Global warming: The scope of the problem - The greenhouse effect - The Keeling CurveWolf Berger, Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Global WarmingGeneral information answering these questions - What is the problem? - Greenhouse Gases? How serious is it? - What do we know? - How much do we emit? Now? In the future?Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Union of Concerned ScientistsSummary of knowledge, impacts and possible solutions.Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
habitats
TidepoolDiagram showing vertical distribution of different types of organisms in a southern California tidepool.SIO Explorations and Earthguide
living things
Luxgene.comThis is an educational website, created to provide information, experimental data, images and animations of bioluminescent organisms in action.Luxgene
archaea
arthropods
The Pacific Mole CrabEmerita analoga, also know as the "sand crab"Farallones Marine Sanctuary Association
Biology of CopepodsCarl von Ossietzky, University of Oldenburg, Germany
KrillAustralian Antarctic Division
bacteria
birds
cnidarians
NOAA's Coral Reef Information SystemA single point of access to NOAA coral reef information and data products, especially those derived from NOAA's Coral Reef Initiative Program.NOAA
About Coral ReefsCoral reefs are complex, biologically diverse ecosystems. Countless studies, books and papers have been devoted to exploring and understanding the nature of these unique marine environments. These four essays discuss some of the most important aspects of coral reefs. Many of their physical and biological characteristics are discussed in detail. Coral reef threats, both natural and anthropogenic, also are explored.Coral Reef Information System, NOAA
Coral ReefsTwo sections devoted to learning about coral reefs: an online tutorial, and an educational roadmap to resources. The Coral Tutorial is an overview of the biology of and threats to coral reefs. The tutorial is rich in substance and is presented in easy-to-understand language. It is made up of 11 "chapters" or pages (plus a reference page) that can be read in sequence by clicking on the arrows at the top or bottom of each chapter page. The tutorial includes many illustrative and interactive graphics to visually enhance the learning process. The Roadmap to Resources complements the information highlighted in the tutorial. The roadmap directs you to specific coral data offerings within the NOS and NOAA family of products.National Ocean Service, NOAA
Coral ReefGeneral information and links to other resources about coral reefs.National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Silent Sentinels: The Future of CoralSilent Sentinels was originally broadcast by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation TV in 1999. This site contains Real Audio commentary by internationally recognized scientists.Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Early Warning Signs of Global Warming: Coral Reef BleachingShort summary with references.Union of Concerned Scientists
The 1997-1998 Mass Bleaching Event Around the WorldThere has been significant bleaching of hard and soft corals in widely separate parts of the world from mid-1997 to the last months of 1998. Much of this bleaching coincided with a large El Nino event, immediately switching over to a strong La Nina. Some of the reports by experienced observers are of unprecedented bleaching in places as widespread as (from west to east) the Middle East, East Africa, the Indian Ocean, South, Southeast and East Asia, far West and far East Pacific, the Caribbean and Atlantic Ocean.Compiled by Clive Wilkinson, Global Coordinator, Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network, Australian Institute of Marine Science
The Truth About JellyfishTony Corey, Rhode Island Sea Grant
SiphonophoresIt provides an introduction to the biology of siphonophores, and is intended for both a scientific and general audience. In the near future it will also consolidate data on siphonophore systematics and provide access to digitized siphonophore literature. These latter objectives are being met in collaboration with Dr. Philip R. Pugh of the National Oceanographic Centre in the United Kingdom.by Casey Dunn, www.siphonophores.org
echinoderms
Prickly Prize: Briny Depths off La Jolla Yield Some of the most Coveted Sea Urchin on EarthArticle from the San Diego Union Tribune about prized sea urchins harvested offshore San Diego.Catalina Offshore Products and the San Diego Union Tribune
fish
FishBaseGeneral reference for a wide variety of fish species. Site may take a little time to load.FishBase
The Coelecanth: More Living than FossilSmithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Ancient Creature of the DeepMeet the coelecanth, a bizarre fisn and "living fossil" that has changed little in its 400 million years on Earth.NOVA, PBS
Orange Roughy: Delicacy from the DeepStudent and teacher resource.Ministry of Fisheries, New Zealand
The Orange Roughy Management Company Ltd.Corporate site include information about the biology of orange roughyThe Orange Roughy Management Company Ltd.
Seafood WATCHInformation to help you buy fish in a way that supports conservation.Monterey Bay Aquarium
general
Animal Diversity WebAn online database of animal natural history, distribution, classification, and conservation biology at the University of Michigan.University of Michigan Museum of Zoology
Tree of Life Web ProjectA collaborative Internet project containing information about phylogeny and biodiversityDavid R. Maddison
David R. Maddison, et al.
David R. Maddison, et al.
humans
Human Origins Program: In Search of What Makes Us HumanSmithsonian Institution
Human Evolution: The Fossil Evidence in 3-DInteractive website that includes 3-D skulls that you can rotate and compare.Phillip L. Walker and Edward H. Hagen, University of California Santa Barbara
marine mammals
The National Marine Mammal Laboratory's Education websiteNational Marine Mammal Laboratory
El Niño Impacts on Pinnipeds by SpeciesNational Marine Mammal Laboratory, NOAA
This Whale's (After) LifeWhat happens when a dead whale falls to the bottom of the sea? Find out what "biological oceanographer Craig Smith of the University of Hawaii and his research associates, including graduate student Amy Baco: observed in the Santa Cruz Basin offshore California.Julie Zeidner Russo, NOAA's Undersea Research Program
Tagging of Pacific PredatorsNear real-time tracking of marine animals in the Pacific.Tagging of Pacific Predators
mollusks
Coastal Pelagic Species - Market SquidBasic information and movies about the market squid, Loligo opalescens. This species has recently become the most valuable fishery in California.Dr. John Butler, Fisheries Resources Division, NOAA Fisheries
CephBaseThe purpose of CephBase is to provide life history, distribution, images, catch and taxonomic data on all living species of cephalopods (octopus, squid, cuttlefish and nautilus).
The Giant Octopus Web PageA site, devoted to the Giant Octopus in Alaska, where for the past five years I have been studying the ecology of this animal - David Scheel.David Scheel, Alaska Pacific University
In Search of Giant SquidThis online exhibit explores and interprets the mystery, beauty and complexity of giant squids - the world's largest invertebratesSmithsonian Museum of Natural History
Morro Bay and AbaloneHistorical photos and short accounts of a bygone industry.Historical Morro Bay, California
The History of the Commercial Fishermen of Morro BayContent about the rich history of Morro Bay's commercial fishing industry. Contains oral histories, photos and more.California Sea Grant
plants
poriferans
Introduction to PoriferaIncludes information about the evolution of sponges over geologic time.UC Berkeley Museum of Paleontology
Phylum Porifera: SpongesSegment on sponges accompanying a PBS series covering major phyla.The Shape of Life, PBS
No Where Else on Earth: Protecting the Unique Glass Sponge Reefs of Hecate StraitLiving glass sponge reefs off the coast of British Columbia, Canada.Aquanews, Vancouver Aquarium
SpongesAbout sponges and the history of the sponge industry in Kalymnos, Greece. Don't miss the buttons that lead to other content at the bottom of the short front page.Municipality of Kalymnos
Diving the Skafandro SuitHistory of the diving attire that contributed to the death and disability of sponge divers.Diving Heritage
Sponge fishing in Key West and Tarpon SpringsHistory of the sponge industry in the U.S. in Tarpon Springs, Florida.Diving Heritage
protists
Pfiesteria piscidaLatest on an organism that causes fish kills in coastal waters and estuaries of the east coast of the U.S.North Carolina State University
reptiles
worms
Ice WormsSpeculating on the origin of worms in the Robert Service poem, "The Ballad of the Ice-Worm Cocktail."T. Neil Davis, Alaska Science Forum; Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska Fairbanks
marine biology
This Whale's (After) LifeWhat happens when a dead whale falls to the bottom of the sea? Find out what "biological oceanographer Craig Smith of the University of Hawaii and his research associates, including graduate student Amy Baco: observed in the Santa Cruz Basin offshore California.Julie Zeidner Russo, NOAA's Undersea Research Program
origin of life
people
photosynthesis
TidepoolDiagram showing vertical distribution of different types of organisms in a southern California tidepool.SIO Explorations and Earthguide
What is Photosynthesis?Arizona State University
productivity
SeaWIFS ProjectNASA
resources
NOAA FisheriesNational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
terrestrial biology
USDA PLANTS DatabaseThe PLANTS Database is a single source of standardized information about plants. This database focuses on vascular plants, mosses, liverworts, hornworts, and lichens of the U.S. and its territories. The PLANTS Database includes names, checklists, automated tools, identification information, species abstracts, distributional data, crop information, plant symbols, plant growth data, plant materials information, plant links, references, and other plant information. PLANTS reduces costs by minimizing duplication and making information exchange possible across agencies and disciplines.United States Department of Agriculture
Programs and Research, Arizona-Sonora Desert MuseumIncludes information comparing types of southwest deserts and images.Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
tracking
Tagging of Pacific PredatorsNear real-time tracking of marine animals in the Pacific.Tagging of Pacific Predators
climate change and interconnections
general
The Ozone Hole TourCentre for Atmospheric Science, Cambridge University
University of Cambridge, Britain
University of Cambridge, Britain
Worldwatch InstituteWorldwatch is a non profit public policy research organization dedicated to informing policymakers and the public about emerging global problems and trends and the complex links between the world economy and its environmental support systems.
Bill Moyers Reports: Earth on EdgeEvery day brings news of human beings' impact on the life-support system known as Earth. But what is the truth behind the headlines? In 1999, an international group of more than 70 scientists analyzed the condition of the five ecosystems on which all life most heavily depends � freshwater, agriculture, forests, grasslands, and coastal ecosystems. Their findings are the scientific basis for Earth on Edge...KPBS
Scripps CO2 ProgramThis web site serves both as a tribute to Charles David Keeling, who was the first person to document the rise in Carbon Dioxide concentration, and provides access to products of the Scripps CO2 Program based at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California. Current results, including data sets and graphics, are available here from the ongoing program to measure CO2 and related species.Scripps CO2 Program
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
biodiversity
IUCN Redlist of Threatened SpeciesThe IUCN Red List of Threatened Species provides taxonomic, conservation status and distribution information on taxa that have been evaluated using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. This system is designed to determine the relative risk of extinction, and the main purpose of the IUCN Red List is to catalogue and highlight those taxa that are facing a higher risk of global extinction (i.e. those listed as Critically Endangered, Endangered and Vulnerable). The IUCN Red List also includes information on taxa that are categorized as Extinct or Extinct in the Wild; on taxa that cannot be evaluated because of insufficient information (i.e. are Data Deficient); and on taxa that are either close to meeting the threatened thresholds or that would be threatened were it not for an ongoing taxon-specific conservation programme (i.e. Near Threatened).International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources
Biodiversity HotspotsInformation on biodiversity, threats to biodiversity, and conservation responses in 25 biologically rich areas around the world under significant threat of destruction. CI seeks "to provide information to decision-makers and planners in government agencies, non-profit organizations, academic institutions, and the conservation community generally to make informed decisions influencing conservation in the hotspots. Specifically, the synthesis of information will support the definition of science-based targets for avoiding species extinctions, protecting critical areas within the hotspots, and developing conservation strategies that will enable the persistence of biodiversity over time. "Conservation International
climate change
Climate ChangeEPA's Climate Change Site offers comprehensive information on the issue of climate change in a way that is accessible and meaningful to all parts of society � communities, individuals, business, states and localities, and governments.U.S. EPA
Global Warming"EPA's Climate Change Site offers comprehensive information on the issue of climate change in a way that is accessible and meaningful to all parts of society � communities, individuals, business, states and localities, and governments."CNN.com
Global ChangeText from Scripps scientist and Professor, Dr. Wolf Berger.Wolf Berger, Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Climate ChangeText from Scripps scientist and Professor, Dr. Wolf Berger.Wolf Berger, Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Scripps CO2 ProgramThis web site serves both as a tribute to Charles David Keeling, who was the first person to document the rise in Carbon Dioxide concentration, and provides access to products of the Scripps CO2 Program based at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California. Current results, including data sets and graphics, are available here from the ongoing program to measure CO2 and related species.Scripps CO2 Program
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
A Closer Look at Global WarmingSummary and resource described as - "Climate Change Science: An Analysis of Some Key Questions, a new report by a committee of the National Research Council, characterizes the global warming trend over the last 100 years, and examines what may be in store for the 21st century and the extent to which warming may be attributable to human activity. The committee was made up of 11 of the nation's top climate scientists, including seven members of the National Academy of Sciences, one of whom is a Nobel Prize winner."National Academy of Sciences
Climate Research and ApplicationsCheck out annual climate reports beginning in 1997 titled "Climate of".National Climate Data Center, NOAA
el ni�o
environmental quality
Ground-level OzoneSummary of the sources, causes, and effects of ozone near the ground.Air Quality Planning & Standards, U.S. EPA
ozone
The Ozone Hole TourCentre for Atmospheric Science, Cambridge University
University of Cambridge, Britain
University of Cambridge, Britain
Ozone DepletionWithin this area you'll find information about the science of ozone depletion, information about the regulatory approach to protecting the ozone layer, and information on alternatives to ozone-depleting substances, ...U.S. EPA
Deadly SmogThe Donora Smog Disaster, London: The Big Smoke, and Los Angeles: Welcome to Car Land - three vignettes about poor air quality due to smog.NOW: with Bill Moyers, KPBS
Simple Test for Ozone Lung DamageNovember 27, 2003, BBC News, World Edition
global change
Coral Mortality and African DustThis site poses the potential cause-and-effect relationship between the death of corals in the Carribbean with sources of atmospheric dust from the Sahara. U.S. Geological Survey
Scripps CO2 ProgramThis web site serves both as a tribute to Charles David Keeling, who was the first person to document the rise in Carbon Dioxide concentration, and provides access to products of the Scripps CO2 Program based at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California. Current results, including data sets and graphics, are available here from the ongoing program to measure CO2 and related species.Scripps CO2 Program
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
Carbon Dioxide Information Analysis Center (CDIAC)The Carbon Dioxide Information Analysis Center which includes the World Data Center for Atmospheric Trace Gases, is the primary global-change data and information analysis center of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).Department of Energy
Environmental Sciences Division, Office of Biological and Environmental Research, Department of Energy (CDIAC represents DOE in the multi-agency Global Change Data and Information System)
Environmental Sciences Division, Office of Biological and Environmental Research, Department of Energy (CDIAC represents DOE in the multi-agency Global Change Data and Information System)
NASA Fact SheetsConcise PDF documents that were created by NASA in an effort to educate the general public on major issues and natural phenomna that scientists will be studying using data provided by the Earth Observing System. Most topics are related to climate and global change.NASA
U.S. Global Change Research Information OfficeCenter for International Science Information Network (CIESIN) at Columbia University
Global Change Master Directory (GCMD)"A directory of earth science data." Wide range of data for advanced research.NASA
human society
Isotopic Analysis of Teeth and Bones Solves a Mesoamerican MysteryCase where isotopes help to solve an archaeological mystery - Where did the remarkably successful ruler of Copán, Yax K'uk Mo, originate? Yax K'uk Mo is credited with transforming Copan from "a modest village" to "among the most accomplished Maya cities in art, architexture, and astronomy."Physics Today, Volume 57, Number 1, January 2004, pages 20-21.
OECD Factbook 2005: Economic, Environmental and Social Statistics Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
United States Energy and World Energy Production and Consumption StatisticsU.S. Geological Survey
UN Statistics DivisionUN Statistics Division
World and U.S. populationU.S. Census Bureau
origins of life
Life's Far-Flung Raw MaterialsScientific American
sea level
Sinking City of Venice: Weighing the SolutionsDescribes flooding problems in Venice, Italy caused by the dual problems of sinking land and rising sea level and a technological fix. John Keahey; NOVA, PBS
weather
JetStream: An Online School for WeatherJetStream, the National Weather Service Online School for Weather. This site is designed to help educators, emergency managers, or anyone interested in learning about weather and weather safety.National Weather Service, Southern Region Headquarters
Saffir-Simpson Hurricane ScaleMSNBC - Weather
Storm WatchList of sources of forecast information for storms including hurricanes and winter storms.Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Weather and Climate"Housed at USDA, JAWF monitors the weather and assesses its likely impact on crops around the world."U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Chief Economist
wetlands
WetlandsThis Wetlands Information System is designed to provide comprehensive wetlands information to the general public, the educational community, and government agencies. It is a compilation of public and private sector information, including maps, environmental documents, agency roles in wetlands management, restoration and mitigation activities, regulatory permitting, and wetland policies.National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA
The California Environmental Resources Evaulation System(CERES), California Resources Agency
The California Environmental Resources Evaulation System(CERES), California Resources Agency
WetlandsWebsite for the Wetlands Program at the U.S. EPA. "The enduring mission of the program is to encourage and enable others to act effectively in protecting and restoring the nation's wetlands and associated ecosystems, including shallow open waters and free-flowing streams. In doing so, the program engages in two principal categories of activities -- establishing national standards and assisting others to meet them. EPA serves specifically: 1) as a partner, providing support for both regulatory and non-regulatory wetlands protection efforts; 2) as a promoter and distributor of sound wetlands science as the technical basis for effective wetlands decision making; 3) in an advisory capacity for State and Tribal wetlands programs and for Clean Water Act Section 404 permit decisions; 4) as the developer of national wetlands standards and policies; and 5) as a regulator to back up our State and Local partners and ensure that national standards are lawfully applied."U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)
California Vernal PoolsAn organization dedicated to saving California's vernal pool landscapes.VernalPools.org
earth history
general
geologic time
hadean time
holocene epoch
mesozoic period
modern times
paleozoic era
people
The Cave of LascauxPrehistoric artwork from the caves at Lascaux, France showing animals of the last ice age. Website available in french, english, german and spanish.Ministère de la culture et de la communication, France
La Grotte CosquerPrehistoric artwork from the caves at Cosquer, France showing marine and terrestrial animals of the last ice age. Website is in French.Ministère de la culture et de la communication, France
pleistocene epoch
The Great Ice AgeInformation about the widespread glaciation of the PleistoceneLouis L. Ray, USGS, Department of the Interior
The Cave of LascauxPrehistoric artwork from the caves at Lascaux, France showing animals of the last ice age. Website available in french, english, german and spanish.Ministère de la culture et de la communication, France
La Grotte CosquerPrehistoric artwork from the caves at Cosquer, France showing marine and terrestrial animals of the last ice age. Website is in French.Ministère de la culture et de la communication, France
precambrian time
tertiary period
freshwater
general
Water Science for SchoolsInformation on many aspects of water, along with pictures, data, maps, and an interactive center where you can give opinions and test your water knowledge.U.S. Geological Survey
The World's WaterA site dedicated to providing water information, data, and resources to individuals, organizations, and institutions working on solutions to a wide range of global freshwater problems.Pacific Institute
Science in your WatershedThe purpose of this site is to help you find scientific information organized on a watershed basis.U.S. Geological Survey
Water Supply and SanitationIn helping our members rise to meet this challenge, we seek to foster approaches that are people-centered, market-based and earth-friendly.The World Bank
U.S. Water News - LinksWater resources links for state, federal, international, professional, non-profit, and general agencies and organizations. U.S. Water News
The Water CycleNASA Earth Observatory
Earth Trends: Environmental InformationEarthTrends is a comprehensive online database, maintained by the World Resources Institute, that focuses on the environmental, social, and economic trends that shape our world.World Resources Institute
atmospheric vapor and clouds
WW 2010WW2010 (the weather world 2010 project) is a WWW framework for integrating current and archived weather data with multimedia instructional resources using new and innovative technologies. Department of Atmospheric Sciences (DAS) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
dams
World Commission on DamsReportThe WCD was an independent, international, multi-stakeholder process which addressed the controversial issues associated with large dams. It provided a unique opportunity to bring into focus the many assumptions and paradigms that are at the centre of the search to reconcile economic growth, social equity, environmental conservation and political participation in the changing global context. The Commission completed its work with the launch of its final report and disbanded." Be sure to read the Commission's Report. Dams and Development Project (DDP), UN Environment Programme
on the colorado river
Glen Canyon: A Dam, Water and The WestPBS Online and KUED
Hoover DamPart of The American Experience series by PBS and WGBH
Hoover Dam: National Historic LandmarkThe Story of the Hoover DamU. S. Department of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation
on the yangtze river
China's Three Gorges: Before the FloodArthur Zich, National Geographic, September 1997, pages 2-33.
Photographs by Bob Sach
Photographs by Bob Sach
glaciers
All About GlaciersThe National Snow & Ice Data Center
Glaciers and Icecaps: Storehouses of FreshwaterU. S. Geological Survey
Satellite Image Atlas of Glaciers of the WorldUS Geological Survey
Antarctica OnlineAustralian Antarctic Division
Snow CrystalsCalifornia Institute of Technology
groundwater
Groundwater Information PagesInformation about the groundwater resources of the U.S. and the groundwater activities of the USGSProfessor J. David Allan
U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Geological Survey
MTBE in Drinking WaterOffice of Water, Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Water, EPA
Office of Water, EPA
The Edwards Aquifer WebsiteGregg A. Eckhardt
Earth's Water: GroundwaterWater Science for Schools, U.S. Geological Survey
hydrology
Water Science for SchoolsInformation on many aspects of water, along with pictures, data, maps, and an interactive center where you can give opinions and test your water knowledge.U.S. Geological Survey
lakes
lake nyos
What Happened at Nyos?Michel Halbwachs, University of Savoie
salton sea
The Salton SeaSatellite image of the Salton Sea - that "large" body of water in Imperial and Riverside counties, just east of San Diego.Center for Inland Waters, San Diego State University
Salton Sea Myths & RealitiesThe Salton Sea Authority
rivers and streams
Water Watch: Maps and Graphs of Current Water Resources ConditionsClick on the nearest stream and see how current flow stacks up with past flows.U. S. Geological Survey (USGS)
colorado river
mississippi river
Just Doing my Job: The Mississippi Flood of '93Story told as personal account with activities for students.NASA
other rivers
The Geologic Story of the Ocoee River USGS, Forest Service, and the Tennessee Valley Authority
rhine river
The "Miracle" of the RhineFish are once again swimming in the Rhine River but it took an ecological catastrophe for the countries it flows through to clean up their actThe UNESCO Courier
water quality
MTBE in Drinking WaterOffice of Water, Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Water, EPA
Office of Water, EPA
water resources
UN - Indicators on Water Supply and SanitationTable showing percentage of population with access to drinking water and sanitation facilities by country.United Nations Statistics Division
World Water Assessment ProgrammeThe UNESCO Water Portal is intended to enhance access to information related to freshwater available on the World Wide Web.UNESCO
Earth Trends: Environmental InformationEarthTrends is a comprehensive online database, maintained by the World Resources Institute, that focuses on the environmental, social, and economic trends that shape our world.World Resources Institute
environment
general
pollution and garbage
Scripps Environmental Accumulation of Plastic Expedition (SEAPLEX)Expedition to explore the "Great North Pacific Garbage Patch"Scripps Institution of Oceanography
environmental engineering
general
leaking underground storage tanks
storm water runoff
geological engineering
general
flood control
seismic safety
The Earthquake Engineering Online ArchiveThe Earthquake Engineering Online Archive is a database of significant, publicly-funded research and development literature, photographs, data, and software in earthquake, structural, and geotechnical engineering. It includes full text for EERC, SEMM, and PEER reports published at UC Berkeley, the NISEE software library, and images from EQIIS, including the Steinbrugge, Godden, and Kozak collections.National Information Service for Earthquake Engineering (NISEE) at UC Berkeley
slope stabilization
geoscience
general
NGDC Geologic Hazards PhotosPhotos of earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, landslides, and other geologic hazards. Free photos online and slide sets for sale. NOAA National Data Centers, NGDC
Plain GeologyMore than 50 years ago former [USGS] Director George Otis Smith recognized that scientific reports are often couched in words and phrases that are understandable only to other scientists, engineers, or technicians. His plea for 'Plain Geology' was a classic, just as applicable now as it was in 1921. It is herewith reprinted to make it generally available.George Otis Smith (1871-1944), USGS
U.S.G.S. Geology in the ParksGreat connections between basic earth science themes and National Parks. Excellent images.Cooperative project of the U.S. Geological Survey Western Earth Surface Processes Team and the National Park Service.
Geologic Map of the United StatesPhilip B. King and Helen M. Beikman, U.S. Geological Survey
Geologic Maps of California (I)Caltech Library System
Geologic Maps of California (II)California Geological Survey
SnowCrystals.com"all about snow crystals and snowflakes -- what they are, where they come from, and just how these remarkably complex and beautiful structures are created, quite literally, out of thin air."Kenneth G. Libbrecht
snowcrystals.com
snowcrystals.com
This Dynamic Earth: The Story of Plate TectonicsOnline edition of U.S.G.S book by Kious and Tilling. Static figures, but they're very nice.Jacquelyne Kious and Robert I Tilling, U.S. Geological Survey
W.J. Kious and R.I. Tilling, USGS
W.J. Kious and R.I. Tilling, USGS
deserts
earth history
earthquakes
NGDC Geologic Hazards PhotosPhotos of earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, landslides, and other geologic hazards. Free photos online and slide sets for sale. NOAA National Data Centers, NGDC
Virtual Courseware: EarthquakeEarthquake is an activity that shows how an earthquake epicenter is located and how the Richter magnitude of an earthquake is determined.Virtual Courseware for Earth and Environmental Science
IGPP Broadband Seismic Data Collection CenterEarthquake reports and information.Institute for Geophysics and Planetary Physics, Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UCSD
Berkeley Digital Seismic NetworkUC Berkeley/USGS
CalTech Seismological LaboratoryCalifornia Institute of Technology (CalTech)
The IRIS Seismic MonitorIRIS is a consortium of United States Universities that have research programs in seismology. The purpose of IRIS is to develop and operate the infrastructure needed for the acquisition and distribution of high quality seismic data.The Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS)
Southern California Earthquake CenterA regionally focused organization founded in 1991 with a mission to gather new information about earthquakes in Southern California, integrate that knowledge into a comprehensive and predictive understanding of earthquake phenomena, and communicate this understanding to end-users and the general public in order to increase earthquake awareness, reduce economic losses, and save lives.SCEC
EarthquakesThe Tech Museum of Innovation, San Jose, California
Earthquakes for Kids & GrownupsEarthguake Hazards Program, USGS
The Parkfield, California, Earthquake ExperimentEarthquake Hazards Program, USGS
The Severity of an EarthquakeDiscusses how earthquakes are measured, the Richter scale, and the differences between intensity and magnitude.USGS
The Earthquake Engineering Online ArchiveThe Earthquake Engineering Online Archive is a database of significant, publicly-funded research and development literature, photographs, data, and software in earthquake, structural, and geotechnical engineering. It includes full text for EERC, SEMM, and PEER reports published at UC Berkeley, the NISEE software library, and images from EQIIS, including the Steinbrugge, Godden, and Kozak collections.National Information Service for Earthquake Engineering (NISEE) at UC Berkeley
erosion
Significant Losses from Coastal Erosion Anticipated Along U.S. CoastlinesArticle highlighting predicted loss of "approximately 25% of homes and other structures within 500 feet of the U.S. coastline and the shorelines of the Great Lakes."Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
faults
Submarine Faults of the San Andreas: Southern California's Hidden Hazards by Jennifer Reynolds, NOAA's Undersea Research Program
fossils
The Museum of PaleontologyUniversity of California, Berkeley
Isotopic Analysis of Teeth and Bones Solves a Mesoamerican MysteryCase where isotopes help to solve an archaeological mystery - Where did the remarkably successful ruler of Copán, Yax K'uk Mo, originate? Yax K'uk Mo is credited with transforming Copan from "a modest village" to "among the most accomplished Maya cities in art, architexture, and astronomy."Physics Today, Volume 57, Number 1, January 2004, pages 20-21.
geologic time
Web Geological Time MachineGeologic time chart including some detail in the Precambrian.Museum of Paleontology, UC Berkeley
Climate TimeLine"The Climate TimeLine uses a "powers of ten" exponential approach to frame 1) meteorological and climatic processes (Climate Science) and 2) specific climate events of the past at varying timescales."National Climatic Data Center, NOAA
The Geological Time ScaleGeologic time chart without detail in the Precambrian.Cascades Volcano Observatory, USGS
GSA Geologic Time ScaleDetailed time scale chage that includes geomagnetic polarity reversals. Suitable for printing.The Geological Society of America
Geologic TimelineGeologic time chart with some detail in the Precambrian and highlighted events for each timeSan Diego Natural History Museum
glaciers
All About GlaciersThe National Snow & Ice Data Center
Quaternary GIS LibraryThe Quaternary GIS Library "supports quantitative spatial analysis of glacier, climate, and other environmental relationships at high latitudes." Includes animations and maps related to glaciation, including an animation showing rising sealevel and inundation of the Bering Land Bridge over the last 21,000 years.INSTAAR, University of Colorado
Animation of Bering Land BridgeAnimation showing rising sealevel and inundation of the Bering Land Bridge over the last 21,000 years. 1.6 Mb .mov file.INSTAAR, University of Colorado
Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR)Central website and link to their resources.INSTAAR, University of Colorado
SnowCrystals.com"all about snow crystals and snowflakes -- what they are, where they come from, and just how these remarkably complex and beautiful structures are created, quite literally, out of thin air."Kenneth G. Libbrecht
snowcrystals.com
snowcrystals.com
global change
hydrology
landslides
NGDC Geologic Hazards PhotosPhotos of earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, landslides, and other geologic hazards. Free photos online and slide sets for sale. NOAA National Data Centers, NGDC
The Mountain That Moved"Prehistoric, giant landslides in Montgomery and Craig Counties, Va., in the Blacksburg/Wythe Ranger Districts of the Jefferson National Forest, are the largest known landslides in eastern North America and are among the largest in the world. One of the landslides is more than 3 miles long! The ancient, giant landslides extend for more than 20 miles along the eastern slope of Sinking Creek Mountain."USGS
magnetic field
Why does the Earth's magnetic field flip over the course of history?Scientific American
The GeodynamoModeled images of the magnetic field before, during, and after a reversal.Gary Glatzmaier, UC Santa Cruz
What is the Magnetosphere?About the part of the Earth's magnetic field that extends into space and interacts with the solar wind.Space Plasma Physics Branch, Marshall Space Flight Center, NASA
manganese nodules
mineral resources
Bancroft Mineral CollectionUniversity of California, Santa Barbara
petroleum
Learning About Fossil FuelsU.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
International Energy AnnualU.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
The History of the Standard Oil CompanyCopy of journalist Ida Tarbell's report on John D. Rockefeller's business practices in 1904.University of Rochester
plate tectonics
Nova: Into the AbyssSite follows researchers at sea as they work to bring a piece of the mid-ocean ridge back to the surface from the Juan de Fuca Ridge in the North Pacific.NOVA Online
Tectonic Motion in North AmericaMaps of plate motion based on Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR).NASA Space Geodesy Branch
This Dynamic Earth: The Story of Plate TectonicsOnline edition of U.S.G.S book by Kious and Tilling. Static figures, but they're very nice.Jacquelyne Kious and Robert I Tilling, U.S. Geological Survey
W.J. Kious and R.I. Tilling, USGS
W.J. Kious and R.I. Tilling, USGS
Our Changing ContinentsDiscusses the evidence for continental drift and the condition of the United States through geologic history.John S. Schlee, USGS
The Paleogeographic Atlas ProjectSite contains maps showing the distributions of tectonic plates over geologic time. Unlike other sites that only show changes in the position of the tectonic plates, the paleogeographic reconstructions here show changes in the distribution of oceans vs. land.University of Chicago
Paleomap ProjectPlate tectonic and paleoclimate animations.Christopher R. Scotese
Paleomap Project, Christopher Scotese
Sea WIFS, NASA
Paleomap Project, Christopher Scotese
Sea WIFS, NASA
PLATES ProjectPlate tectonic reconstructionsL. A. Lawver, M. F. Coffin, I. W. D. Dalziel, L. M Gahagan, D. M. Campbell, and R. M. Schmitz, University of Texas Institute for Geophysics
Animation DownloadsPlate tectonic reconstruction and other animation downloads, including those created by Tanya Atwater.UC Santa Barbara
rocks and minerals
Cement and Concrete BasicsEverything you wanted to know about rock, cement, and concrete - history, chemistry, production ....Portland Cement Association
Rob's Granite PageEverything you wanted to know about granite. Lots of photos with clearly visible mineral components.Robert Reed
GoldU.S. Bureau of Mines
special scenery
U.S.G.S. Geology in the ParksGreat connections between basic earth science themes and National Parks. Excellent images.Cooperative project of the U.S. Geological Survey Western Earth Surface Processes Team and the National Park Service.
stratigraphy
volcanoes
VolcanoesThis booklet presents a generalized summary of the nature, workings, products, and hazards of the common types of volcanoes around the world, along with a brief introduction to the techniques of volcano monitoring and research.Robert I. Tilling, USGS
Volcano WorldUniversity of North Dakota
Eruptions of Mount St. Helens: Past, Present, FutureRobert I. Tilling, Lyn Topinka, and Donald A. Swanson, USGS
Man Against Volcano: The Eruption on Heimaey, Vestmannaeyjar, IcelandOne of the most destructive volcanic eruptions in the history of Iceland began in the early morning of January 23,1973, near the country's premier fishing port, the town of Vestmannaeyjar, on Heimaey, the only inhabited isle in the Vestmannaeyjar volcanic archipelago.Richard S. Williams, Jr. and James G. Moore, USGS
Monitoring Active VolcanoesWith precise instruments and refined data analysis, it is now possible to track the subsurface movements of magma by monitoring the earthquakes and measuring the ground changes that accompany such movements.Robert I. Tilling, USGS
Volcanoes of the United States Information about the volcanoes in the US, especially large eruptions.Steven R. Brantley, USGS
hawaiian islands
Eruptions of Hawaiian Volcanoes: Past, Present, FutureRobert I. Tilling, Christina Heliker, and Thomas L. Wright, USGS
Volcanic and Seismic Hazards on the Island of HawaiiThis booklet provides such information for the residents of Hawaii so they may effectively deal with the special geologic hazards of the island.USGS
Loihi VolcanoA site devoted to Loihi volcano, a young and still submerged seamount of the Hawaiian-Emperor chain.Hawaii Center for Volcanology, SOEST, University of Hawaii
what's inside
ice
general
SnowCrystals.com"all about snow crystals and snowflakes -- what they are, where they come from, and just how these remarkably complex and beautiful structures are created, quite literally, out of thin air."Kenneth G. Libbrecht
snowcrystals.com
snowcrystals.com
antarctica
Under Antarctic IcePBS website that accompanies a segment of the program "Nature." "This beautiful film was shot in high definition format over a period of two years by renowned underwater photographer Norbert Wu, who has been exploring the waters beneath the Antarctic ice cap for some time." Peter Brueggeman, Director of the Library at Scripps Institution of Oceanography accompanied Norbert Wu on this trip (see link below).Nature, PBS.org
Antarctic Journal of Peter Brueggeman"In 1997 and 1999, Peter Brueggeman assisted with a National Science Foundation sponsored underwater photography expedition led by Norbert Wu, a professional underwater photographer/cinematographer. The team was based at McMurdo Station on Ross Island in the Ross Sea and Peter did forty-nine scuba dives at various locations around McMurdo Sound."Scripps Institution of Oceanography Library
glaciers
SnowCrystals.com"all about snow crystals and snowflakes -- what they are, where they come from, and just how these remarkably complex and beautiful structures are created, quite literally, out of thin air."Kenneth G. Libbrecht
snowcrystals.com
snowcrystals.com
A multimedia history of Glacier BayNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center
GlaciersDepartment of Geology and Geophysics, Rice University
All About Glaciers: The CryosphereNational Snow and Ice Data Center
planets and moons other than earth
major events
general
cascadia subduction zone
Cascadia Earthquake GraphicsThe Pacific Northwest Urban Corridor Geologic Mapping Project of the Western Earth Surface Processes Team, Geologic Division, U.S. Geological Survey
Cascadia Subduction Zone: Two Contrasting Models of Lithospheric StructureTatiana V. Romanyuk, IPE, Moscow, Russia; Richard Blakely and Walter D. Mooney, USGS, Menlo Park, CA
events on the san andreas fault
sumatra earthquake 2004
observing from afar
general
How Satellites WorkGulf of Maine Aquarium and NASA
Electromagnetic SpectrumImagine the Universe, NASA
Basics of Space Flight: Planetary OrbitsJet Propulsion Laboratory, NASA/CalTech
observations
TOPEX/PoseidonMeasurements of global sea level that tell us about ocean currents and bathymetry.NASA
SeaWIFS Project: The Wild Blue YonderMeasurements of ocean color that tell us about life in the ocean.NASA
remote sensing without satellites
satellites
GOES 8 (East) and GOES 10 (West)About the satellites: A weather tool over the Americas. The first GOES satellite was launched in 1975. Since then there have been a succession of GOES satellites. The currently operational satellites are GOES 8 and 10.NOAA/NASA
Jason-1 (2001+)About the satellite: a tool to measure surface elevation - monitoring El Ni�o and more. Continuing the work of TOPEX/Poseidon.Jet Propulsion Laboratory, NASA/CalTech
LandsatNASA/USGS
MODIS and Terra spacecraftNASA/USGS
TOPEX/Poseidon (1992+)About the satellite: a tool to measure surface elevation - monitoring El Ni�o and more. Followed by Jason-1.JPL, NASA/CalTech
techniques
Basics of Space FlightJet Propulsion Laboratory, NASA/CalTech
GPS: A New ConstellationSmithsonian
Satellite AltimetryEstimating seafloor topography by measuring sea surface topography.NESDIS, National Geophysical Data Center
oceans
general
Ocean PlanetCompanion to a traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian Institution, promoting education and awareness about our "Ocean Planet." Smithsonian
Smithsonian Institution
Smithsonian Institution
BRIDGE: Ocean Sciences Education Teacher Resource CenterBRIDGE offers links to many online resources for marine science education. Supported by the National Oceanographic Partnership Program, and sponsored by the National Marine Educators Association and the national network of Sea Grant educators.
Quarterdeck ONLINEQuarterdeck Magazine is a 24-page, tri-annual publication produced by the Department of Oceanography at Texas A&M University. All the articles are written by professors, staff, students, and alumni of the Department of Oceanography. Texas A&M University
Global Seafloor Topography from Satellite Altimetry methodsMaps of seafloor elevation based on data collected by satellites. The satellite can't "see" the bottom of the ocean, instead it measures the elevation of the ocean and infers the shape of the seafloor. It seems like magic, but it's really science.David T. Sandwell, Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Walter H. F. Smith, NOAA Geosciences Laboratory
Walter H. F. Smith, NOAA Geosciences Laboratory
Water Level Tidal PredictionsConvenient tide chart for Scripps Pier, San Diego, California. Earthguide, Geosciences Research Division, Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Scripps Institution of Oceanography Library
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
Scripps Institution of Oceanography Library
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
NGDC Geologic Hazards PhotosPhotos of earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, landslides, and other geologic hazards. Free photos online and slide sets for sale. NOAA National Data Centers, NGDC
chemistry
circulation
Scripps Environmental Accumulation of Plastic Expedition (SEAPLEX)Expedition to explore the "Great North Pacific Garbage Patch"Scripps Institution of Oceanography
coastal processes
Geologic History of Cape Cod, MassachusettsInformation about how the cape formed after glaciation and how it is still changing.Donna Newman, USGS
coral reefs
NOAA's Coral Reef Information SystemA single point of access to NOAA coral reef information and data products, especially those derived from NOAA's Coral Reef Initiative Program.NOAA
About Coral ReefsCoral reefs are complex, biologically diverse ecosystems. Countless studies, books and papers have been devoted to exploring and understanding the nature of these unique marine environments. These four essays discuss some of the most important aspects of coral reefs. Many of their physical and biological characteristics are discussed in detail. Coral reef threats, both natural and anthropogenic, also are explored.Coral Reef Information System, NOAA
Coral ReefsTwo sections devoted to learning about coral reefs: an online tutorial, and an educational roadmap to resources. The Coral Tutorial is an overview of the biology of and threats to coral reefs. The tutorial is rich in substance and is presented in easy-to-understand language. It is made up of 11 "chapters" or pages (plus a reference page) that can be read in sequence by clicking on the arrows at the top or bottom of each chapter page. The tutorial includes many illustrative and interactive graphics to visually enhance the learning process. The Roadmap to Resources complements the information highlighted in the tutorial. The roadmap directs you to specific coral data offerings within the NOS and NOAA family of products.National Ocean Service, NOAA
Coral Mortality and African DustThis site poses the potential cause-and-effect relationship between the death of corals in the Carribbean with sources of atmospheric dust from the Sahara. U.S. Geological Survey
currents
Pacific Toy Spill Fuels Ocean Current Pathways ResearchWhen several containers of children's bathtub toys spilled over a ship's side and were released into the Pacific Ocean, who would've thought a concerted research project to study the ocean's currents would be the result?Curtis C. Ebbesmeyer, Evans-Hamilton, Inc., Seattle, Wash.
W. James Ingraham Jr., National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Seattle, Wash.
W. James Ingraham Jr., National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Seattle, Wash.
drugs from the sea
Drugs from the SeaInside, in biologist William Fenical's lab, it's good-bye to the sea's charms and hello to the smelly and slimy, the creepy and crawly, the disgusting and fascinating world of creatures scooped from that ocean outside, ground up, and thrown at every frightening disease he can think of. See what Dr. Fenical does at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Looksmart and Discover
energy resources
fisheries
marine life
dinoflagellates
Noctiluca scintillansA spectacular sequence of photos showing several life stages of Noctiluca scintillans. Our favorite photo shows Noctiluca after it's eaten a diatom chain. Slow loading but worth the wait. Jan Rimes
radiolarians
physics
polar oceans
pollution
productivity
sea level
Sinking City of Venice: Weighing the SolutionsDescribes flooding problems in Venice, Italy caused by the dual problems of sinking land and rising sea level and a technological fix. John Keahey; NOVA, PBS
sediments
tidal wave
tides
Water Level Tidal PredictionsConvenient tide chart for Scripps Pier, San Diego, California. Earthguide, Geosciences Research Division, Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Scripps Institution of Oceanography Library
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
Scripps Institution of Oceanography Library
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD
What Causes the Tides?Animated diagram illustrates causes of the two tidal bulges on Earth. Rick Groleau; NOVA, PBS
Giant Fundy TidesInformation about this classic locality from the Hopewell Rocks Park organization. They have an interpretative center at the north end of the Bay of Fundy.The Hopewell Rocks
tsunami
West Coast and Alaska Tsunami CenterNational Weather Service, NOAA
NOAA, National Weather Service
NOAA, National Weather Service
USC Tsunami Research GroupUniversity of Southern California
Tsunami!University of Washington
Killer Surf!Scientists hasten to predict and prepare for a monster wave threatening California's coast." SCIENCE NOTES is written and illustrated by the students in the Science Communication Graduate Studies Program at the University of California, Santa Cruz.Illustrated by Zeke Smith
Krista Conger, Science Notes, UCSC
Krista Conger, Science Notes, UCSC
NGDC Geologic Hazards PhotosPhotos of earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, landslides, and other geologic hazards. Free photos online and slide sets for sale. NOAA National Data Centers, NGDC
water quality
waves
outer space
general
Imagine the UniverseA site for "students age 14 and up, and for anyone interested in learning about our universe".NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center
StarChild: A Learning Center for Young AstronomersNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center
Eyes on the Sky, Feet on the Ground"Hands on astronomy activities for kids". Includes the earth's rotation and orbit, time and the calendar, maps and mapping, solar system, and moon.Smithsonian Institution and NASA
The Nine PlanetsBill Arnett
the sun
Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO)Great images of and general information about our sun.European Space Agency (ESA)/NASA
places
general
Programs and Research, Arizona-Sonora Desert MuseumIncludes information comparing types of southwest deserts and images.Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
U.S.G.S. Geology in the ParksGreat connections between basic earth science themes and National Parks. Excellent images.Cooperative project of the U.S. Geological Survey Western Earth Surface Processes Team and the National Park Service.
Grand CanyonNational Park Service
Imagining the Grand CanyonPaintings of the Grand Canyon by artist David Hockney. See Teaching Tools < Arts for more.National Gallery of Australia
World Heritage SitesUNESCO
antarctica and surroundings
Under Antarctic IcePBS website that accompanies a segment of the program "Nature." "This beautiful film was shot in high definition format over a period of two years by renowned underwater photographer Norbert Wu, who has been exploring the waters beneath the Antarctic ice cap for some time." Peter Brueggeman, Director of the Library at Scripps Institution of Oceanography accompanied Norbert Wu on this trip (see link below).Nature, PBS.org
Antarctic Journal of Peter Brueggeman"In 1997 and 1999, Peter Brueggeman assisted with a National Science Foundation sponsored underwater photography expedition led by Norbert Wu, a professional underwater photographer/cinematographer. The team was based at McMurdo Station on Ross Island in the Ross Sea and Peter did forty-nine scuba dives at various locations around McMurdo Sound."Scripps Institution of Oceanography Library
science in action
a life of exploration
Rachel CarsonRachel Carson was a writer, scientist, and ecologist best know for her influential book Silent Spring (1962). Silent Spring warned the public about the long term environmental effects of misusing pesticides.Rachel Carson.org
John Harrison and the Longitude ProblemHow a working class joiner from Lincolnshire with little formal education takes on the scientific and academic establishment of his time and wins the longitude prize through sheer determination and an extraordinary talent and technical insight, making a major step in modern global navigation systems.Royal Observatory Greenwich
John Wesley Powell: Lost in the Grand Canyon"In the summer of 1869 a one-armed Civil War veteran, John Wesley Powell, led an epic journey down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. It was the last important exploration within the continental United States. Powell wrote a literary classic about his trip, explored the region for another ten years, studied Native American cultures, and used his position as director of the U.S. Geological Survey to argue against the over development of the West."PBS Online - WGBH, The American Experience
Shackleton's Antarctic Odyssey"This legendary explorer's 1914-1916 Endurance expedition is one of the greatest survival stories of all time."NOVA
The Endurance: Shackleton's Legendary Antarctic ExpeditionAmerican Museum of Natural History
Women in ScienceSan Diego Supercomputer Center
activities for you
SETI@homeA scientific experiment that uses Internet-connected computers in the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI). You can participate by running a free program that downloads and analyzes radio telescope data.SETI
The Globe Program"Global learning and observations to benefit the environment." The Globe Program allows primary and secondary school students to get involved with measuring and reporting data about the environment while working with professional scientists.
case studies
exploration and expedition
Nova: Into the AbyssSite follows researchers at sea as they work to bring a piece of the mid-ocean ridge back to the surface from the Juan de Fuca Ridge in the North Pacific.NOVA Online
Descent to the Mid-Atlantic RidgeJoin Scripps researcher, Dr. Donna Blackman, and the entire scientific team as they guide the deep submersible Alvin to probe the depths of the North Atlantic - exploring undersea mountains of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.Earthguide, California Space Institute at Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Dive and Discover: Expeditions to the SeafloorJoin scientists as they dive to the mid-ocean ridge.Woods Hole Oceanographic Insitution and the National Science Foundation
Extreme 2001: A Deep Sea OdysseyJoin scientists as they dive to deep sea vents on the East Pacific Rise.University of Delaware College of Marine Studies and Sea Grant College Program
Extreme 2000: Voyage to the DeepJoin scientists as they dive to hydrothermal vent sites in the Sea of Cort�s off the west coast of Mexico.University of Delaware College of Marine Studies and Sea Grant College Program
technology
general
Tools of the Oceanographer: Sampling EquipmentFind out about solar cells and their uses.Genny Anderson, Santa Barbara City College