When harmful algal blooms threaten public health or fish populations decline unexpectedly, water managers need answers fast. NASA's Satellite-based analysis Tool for Rapid Evaluation of Aquatic environMents (STREAM) delivers answers by transforming satellite imagery into detailed water quality data across entire regions.
Traditional water quality monitoring often relies on field measurements that provide snapshots of conditions at specific locations and times. STREAM revolutionizes this approach by leveraging high-resolution satellite imagery to deliver 20–30 meter resolution monitoring capabilities in near real-time.
This online data tool allows users to track indicators for assessing the health of water bodies by providing data on parameters including chlorophyll-a concentration, Secchi disk depth, and total suspended solids. STREAM also offers historical data dating back to 2018 for select regions, enabling researchers and water managers to identify trends and assess long-term changes in aquatic environments.
In February 2025, NASA's Applied Remote Sensing Training program (ARSET) will offer a two-part live online training that guides participants through STREAM's capabilities, from web tool navigation to data discovery and download. Guest instructors William Wainwright and Ryan O’Shea from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center will co-lead the sessions.
The no-cost training is open to the public and is recommended for water resource managers, public and private water utilities, natural resources conservation organizations, fisheries, and aquaculture organizations. Learn more about this training and how to register.