Representatives from the Tłı̨chǫ region and Yellowknives Dene First Nation participated in a NASA climate change research flight aboard a NASA jet today.
The Arctic-Boreal Vulnerability Experiment is a long-term collaboration between the Government of the Northwest Territories and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
The goal is a better understand of the accelerating impacts of climate change in the Arctic and Boreal regions, stated a GNWT release today.
These regions are experiencing rapid environmental changes, including reduced Arctic sea ice, thawing permafrost, and widespread ecosystem disruptions.
The data collected will include before-and-after observations of areas affected by wildfires in 2022 and 2023, comparing date from previous NASA flights.
The increased frequency and intensity of wildfires may now be occurring faster than the forests can recover, highlighting one of the key ways climate change is transforming the North.
Sean Erasmus is a regulatory trainee with the Yellowknives Dene First Nation.
“What interests me about the NASA Above flight the most is its remote sensing; it will help the scientists to determine the effects of climate change,” he stated in release, adding, “Climate change is really happening.”
Today’s participants contributed to data collection efforts as NASA conducts radar flights, which run until August 30.
Tanisha Beaverho is a use planner intern with the Tłı̨chǫ Government.
“Being involved in a mission that collects vital data to advance our understanding of climate change and environmental phenomena is truly inspiring,” she stated.
“The data obtained from this mission can enhance our understanding of and response to climate change.”
