The launch of NASA's Terra satellite puts two JPL-managed imaging instruments in orbit around Earth. The Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer obtains high-resolution global, regional and local images of Earth in 14 color bands.

The Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer, unlike any other instrument ever flown in space, views Earth from nine widely-spaced angles as the Terra satellite glides above Earth. Since other instruments only see Earth from one perspective, this instrument greatly enhances imaging capabilities.

As of 2002, both instruments are still operational and collecting data.

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