Watch Carbon Dioxide Move Through Earth's Atmosphere

NASA has released a global map visualizing carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations in Earth's atmosphere from January to March 2020, highlighting the gas's movement influenced by wind patterns and atmospheric circulation. The high-resolution model, developed by NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio using the Goddard Earth Observing System (GEOS), allows for detailed observation of CO2 emissions from various sources, including power plants, vehicles, and fires. The map illustrates a pulsing effect due to the day-night cycle of fires and the natural absorption and release of CO2 by plants during photosynthesis. The data indicates that emissions are primarily from industrial activities in regions like China and the U.S., while fires in Africa and South America contribute significantly to CO2 levels.

The visualization aims to enhance understanding of CO2 dynamics, which is crucial for addressing climate change. As CO2 is a major greenhouse gas, its increasing concentration—rising from 278 parts per million in 1750 to 427 ppm in May 2024—contributes to global warming and associated climate impacts, such as extreme weather events. The project underscores the importance of data visualizations in comprehending complex environmental processes and improving predictive models for future greenhouse gas behavior. Scientists emphasize the need to address CO2 emissions to mitigate climate change effects, as evidenced by the record high temperatures observed in recent years.