NASA data lets scientists map forests (and the trees)

Scientists have developed the world's first global forest height data map using satellite data from NASA.

Michael Lefsky of Colorado State University created the map using data collected by NASA's ICESat, Terra, and Aqua satellites. The map will be used to determine how much carbon the world's forests store and how fast that carbon cycles through ecosystems and back into the atmosphere. It also will help scientists predict the spread and behavior of fires and understand the suitability of species to specific forests.

Read more.