NASA Earth Science Career Guide
- Hediye Dağeşen
- Jun 9
- 11 min read
Hello everyone,
I hope you're doing well.
Since I was a child, I’ve always thought deeply about our planet-our home. There was something miraculous about trying to understand it. Even then, I knew I wanted to strive for a better world.
My biggest dream has always been to become an astronaut, and I work toward that goal every second of my life. But along the way, I’ve discovered something just as important: the need to notice the real, the true, and the beautiful. What does that mean? To me, it means grounding myself in reality my own truths and embracing the complexity of nature. Because when we truly understand nature, we begin to see the same sky in a completely different light.
That’s why I’ve decided to share what I’ve learned with others to contribute to a more conscious and connected world. One of the books that inspired this decision was Pale Blue Dot by Carl Sagan. His words reminded me how fragile, yet meaningful, our existence is:
“Look again at that dot. That's here. That's home. That's us. On it everyone you love, everyone you know, everyone you ever heard of, every human being who ever was, lived out their lives. The aggregate of our joy and suffering, thousands of confident religions, ideologies, and economic doctrines, every hunter and forager, every hero and coward, every creator and destroyer of civilization, every king and peasant, every young couple in love, every mother and father, hopeful child, inventor and explorer, every teacher of morals, every corrupt politician, every "superstar," every "supreme leader," every saint and sinner in the history of our species lived there--on a mote of dust suspended in a sunbeam.”
That reflection inspired me to act to learn, to share, and to take responsibility.
And that’s why I’m here now: to share with you this guide.
This guide is designed for students, early-career professionals, educators, and anyone curious about Earth Science and NASA’s role in it.
Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a climate scientist, exploring satellite data for the first time, integrating space science into your classroom, or simply wondering how you can contribute to solving global challenges this guide is for you.
No matter your background, if you’re passionate about understanding our planet and making a difference, you’re in the right place.
What is the Earth Science?
Earth sciences, the fields of study concerned with the solid Earth, its waters, and the air that envelops it. Included are the geologic, hydrologic, and atmospheric sciences.
The broad aim of the Earth sciences is to understand the present features and past evolution of Earth and to use this knowledge, where appropriate, for the benefit of humankind. Thus, the basic concerns of the Earth scientist are to observe, describe, and classify all the features of Earth, whether characteristic or not, to generate hypotheses with which to explain their presence and their development, and to devise means of checking opposing ideas for their relative validity. In this way the most plausible, acceptable, and long-lasting ideas are developed.
About NASA’s Earth Science Division
NASA applies the same creativity and scientific excellence it uses in deep space exploration to the study of our own planet. Through its Earth Science Division, NASA observes and analyzes Earth with extraordinary detail and dedication.
The division currently operates more than 20 Earth-observing satellites, supports a wide range of research initiatives, and funds projects that turn scientific knowledge into practical, real-world solutions. It studies everything from ocean temperatures and land use to atmospheric conditions and melting ice. By doing so, NASA works to understand how different parts of the Earth system influence one another, both immediately and over time.
A key strength of NASA’s approach lies in its collaboration.
The Earth Science Division partners with universities, international organizations, industry experts, and individuals who use Earth data in their work. These partnerships drive innovation and ensure that the science being produced is not only advanced but also highly relevant and actionable.
At its core, NASA’s Earth Science Division is focused on more than just discovery. It aims to deliver science that empowers better decisions, supports communities, protects ecosystems, and helps humanity respond to a rapidly changing world.
NASA’s Big Science Questions: Guiding Earth Science Research
NASA’s Earth Science Division operates over 20 satellites, supports hundreds of research programs, and develops tools to monitor Earth's complex systems. From oceans and land to the atmosphere, ice, and ecosystems, the division collects openly available data that helps communities, scientists, and policymakers understand and respond to planetary changes.(Official page: science.nasa.gov/earth-science)
To achieve its goal of understanding Earth as a system and improving life on our planet, NASA focuses on four foundational questions:
How is the global Earth system changing?
What causes these changes in the Earth system?
How will the Earth system change in the future?
How can Earth system science provide societal benefit?
These core questions guide all Earth Science Division activities and are addressed through six specific focus areas:
Atmospheric Composition (AC):Research in this area focuses on the chemical and physical properties of Earth’s atmosphere, including greenhouse gases, aerosols, and their role in climate and air quality.
https://science.nasa.gov/earth-science/focus-areas/atmospheric-composition/
Weather and Atmospheric Dynamics (WAD):This area explores the movement of air masses, storm systems, and other atmospheric processes that shape our weather and extreme events.
https://science.nasa.gov/earth-science/focus-areas/earth-weather/
Climate Variability and Change (CVC):Scientists observe and model long-term patterns in temperature, precipitation, sea level, and ice cover to understand global climate trends.
https://science.nasa.gov/earth-science/focus-areas/climate-variability-and-change/
Water and Energy Cycle (WEC):This research tracks how water and energy circulate through Earth’s systems, examining rainfall, evaporation, cloud formation, and their impact on ecosystems and agriculture.
https://science.nasa.gov/earth-science/focus-areas/water-and-energy-cycle/
Carbon Cycle and Ecosystems (CCE):The focus here is on changes in vegetation, biodiversity, land cover, and carbon storage, including how ecosystems respond to natural and human influences.
https://science.nasa.gov/earth-science/focus-areas/carbon-cycle-and-ecosystems/
Earth Surface and Interior (ESI):This field investigates the structure and dynamics of Earth’s crust and core, including tectonic activity, earthquakes, and volcanic systems.
https://science.nasa.gov/earth-science/focus-areas/surface-and-interior/
NASA Earth System Observatory
NASA is currently developing the Earth System Observatory, a groundbreaking initiative that will consist of five major satellite missions. These missions are designed to collect essential data on some of the most urgent challenges facing our planet. These include climate change, extreme weather events, natural hazards, wildfires, and global food production.
The Observatory is guided by the priorities set in the 2017 Earth Science Decadal Survey by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. It aims to answer some of the most critical questions about how Earth is changing and how those changes affect life around the world.
The core of the Earth System Observatory will focus on five key science areas:
Aerosols: Understanding airborne particles and their impact on climate and human health
Clouds, Convection, and Precipitation: Studying how water moves through the atmosphere
Mass Change: Measuring shifts in ice sheets, sea levels, and groundwater
Surface Biology and Geology: Observing ecosystems, vegetation, and land cover
Surface Deformation and Change: Monitoring earthquakes, volcanoes, and land motion
In addition to these core missions, NASA will include competitively selected Earth Explorer missions. These will bring innovative new tools and ideas into the Observatory and help address additional high-priority science needs
Pathways to a NASA Earth Science Career
A career in NASA Earth Science can begin in many different ways. What makes this field especially exciting is how it welcomes a wide range of academic backgrounds and interdisciplinary interests.
Relevant Academic Fields
Students who want to pursue a career in Earth science are often encouraged to study subjects such as:
Earth Science
Environmental Science
Atmospheric Science
Oceanography
Geology
Geography
Remote Sensing
Meteorology
Physics
Biology
Computer Science
Data Science
Civil or Environmental Engineering
Each of these disciplines contributes a unique perspective to the broader understanding of Earth as a dynamic system.
Interdisciplinary Pathways
One of the most inspiring aspects of Earth Science is that it also welcomes individuals from other fields who are passionate about planetary health and sustainability. Interdisciplinary transitions are not only possible but also encouraged. For example:
Educators can bring science into classrooms and communities
Engineers can help develop instruments, sensors, and systems for Earth-observing satellites
Science communicators can translate data into stories that inform and inspire
Policy analysts and social scientists can explore how environmental data informs decisions
Artists and designers can visualize climate change and ecosystem dynamics
In short, Earth Science is not limited to one academic path. What matters most is your curiosity, commitment to understanding our planet, and desire to make a difference through science and collaboration.
Skills You Need in Earth Science
Thriving in the field of Earth science requires more than academic knowledge. It calls for a combination of technical abilities, analytical thinking, communication, and a genuine curiosity about the planet. These core skills help bridge scientific data with meaningful solutions for real-world challenges.
Remote Sensing and Data Analysis
Earth scientists frequently work with satellite images and large environmental datasets. Developing the ability to read, process, and interpret remote sensing data is crucial for tracking environmental changes, assessing natural resources, and supporting evidence-based decisions.
Programming and Computational Tools
Proficiency in tools like Python, R, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) helps researchers analyze data, run models, and visualize complex patterns. Platforms such as Google Earth Engine are especially valuable for processing large-scale satellite data. These tools open doors to both research and applied science.
Science Communication and Environmental Literacy
Explaining scientific findings clearly and responsibly is just as important as conducting the research itself. Whether through public talks, educational content, or collaborative projects, the ability to communicate science builds public understanding and drives action.
Educational and Community Engagement
Earth science is deeply connected to people. Skills in teaching, mentoring, and working with communities are vital for educators, citizen science leaders, and outreach professionals. This kind of engagement brings science to life and encourages participation from all walks of society.
Where to Build These Skills
Several international programs offer outstanding training opportunities for students and early-career professionals who want to develop these skill sets:
Neuromatch Academy offers world-class training in data science, computational thinking, and interdisciplinary research. From September 2024 to March 2025, I worked as a Volunteer Staff Member in the Impact Scholars Program, where I supported global learners and contributed to program coordination and project management.
REYES Program (Remote Experience for Young Engineers and Scientists) at UC Berkeley provides immersive online training in environmental science, AI, and Earth observation technologies. As a 2025 participant, I am currently expanding my knowledge in remote sensing and science communication.
These experiences have helped me build technical expertise and grow as a science communicator two essential qualities for contributing meaningfully to Earth science and global sustainability.
Opportunities in Earth Science
NASA offers a variety of internships, fellowships, and programs for those at different stages of their Earth Science journey. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your research, these opportunities provide valuable experience and mentorship.
🔬 DEVELOP National Program
DEVELOP offers a hands-on learning environment where participants work directly with communities to address environmental and policy challenges. Using NASA Earth science data, teams develop practical solutions that have real-world impact. It’s a great opportunity for students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals to gain experience in applied science.
🧑🚀 NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP)
The NPP allows postdoctoral researchers to spend several years collaborating with NASA scientists and engineers at research centers across the U.S. Fields include Earth science, space science, aeronautics, astrobiology, and beyond. It’s ideal for those looking to contribute to cutting-edge research and grow professionally in a scientific environment.
🌍 GLOBE Program (Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment)
GLOBE is a worldwide science and education program that connects students, educators, and citizen scientists to study Earth systems. Participants collect environmental data, conduct research, and engage in NASA-led investigations. It’s a great way to build scientific literacy and be part of a global community passionate about the environment.
☁️ TEMPO (Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring of Pollution)
TEMPO is NASA’s first mission to monitor major air pollutants over North America from space, hourly and at high spatial resolution. The mission offers a powerful platform for educators, students, and researchers to explore topics like air quality, emissions, and public health. Educational outreach and data engagement initiatives tied to TEMPO help connect communities with real-time atmospheric science.
📚 NASA Climate Change Research Initiative (CCRI) – Educator Ambassador Program
I am proud to be a part of this inspiring program, which connects educators with NASA scientists and climate researchers. As an Educator Ambassador, I’ve had the opportunity to work on climate change education projects that integrate real satellite data into classroom and outreach activities. CCRI empowers teachers to bring climate science to life and fosters collaboration between scientists, educators, and students.
📑 ROSES: Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Science
ROSES provides grant-based funding for a wide range of Earth and space science research. Awards can range from small-scale data analysis projects to multi-year, multi-million dollar experiments and hardware development. These opportunities are available to researchers affiliated with institutions, universities, and labs.
Training & Resources
NASA also provides open-access training programs and webinars to help individuals learn how to work with Earth observation data and tools.
🌐 Earthdata Webinars
NASA Earthdata hosts regular online seminars led by experts in various fields. Topics range from cloud-based data access to the use of specific tools and platforms. These webinars are free and suitable for all levels of experience.
🛰️ ARSET: Applied Remote Sensing Training
NASA ARSET offers free online and in-person courses that teach individuals and organizations how to use satellite data in their environmental planning and decision-making. This program is especially valuable for government agencies, NGOs, researchers, and educators.
📺 NASA Earth Science Playlist – Earth, a System of Systems
This playlist offers an engaging overview of NASA’s Earth science missions and how they help us better understand climate, ecosystems, and our planet as a system. It’s a great starting point for visual learners and space science enthusiasts.
A Voice for the Planet: My Personal Mission to Understand and Inspire Through Science
Since high school, I've had a strong connection to both the Earth and space. While others appreciated the stars from a distance, I adopted a different approach. I began sending emails to NASA. I was unsure if anyone would react, but I believed that reaching out was important. Every email I sent reflected my ambition to be a part of something worthwhile.
Throughout those years, I spent numerous hours researching NASA's web resources. I watched films, read mission reports, and became increasingly interested in climate and Earth observation data. I didn't have a formal science background, but I had something as powerful: curiosity and consistency.
What made those early attempts even more noteworthy was when NASA responded to one of my mails in 2017. I was still in high school when I got a brief but heartfelt email from their outreach team. That remark reminded me that often the simplest appreciation may ignite the most powerful inspiration. It gave me the strength to continue learning, asking questions, and hoping that one day I would be a part of something bigger.
One day, while looking for free learning resources, I came across NASA EPDC (Educator Professional Development Collaborative) seminars sponsored by Texas State University. I enrolled in all of the accessible courses. These sessions taught me about the principles of climate science, satellite data, and Earth systems. They taught me that space education was more than just for scientists; it was accessible, inclusive, and revolutionary. I worked on climate education and outreach through monthly briefings and collaborative workshops.
You can explore my learning materials and training documents in this shared folder:
This quest finally lead me to participate in the NASA Climate Change Research Initiative (CCRI) Educator Ambassador Program. As an ambassador, I joined a professional network of educators and NASA scientists dedicated to incorporating NASA's Earth science material into schools and communities. I worked on climate education and outreach through monthly briefings and collaborative workshops.
Along with my learning adventure, I launched Ecozyon Tech, a firm dedicated to developing AI-powered tools for environmental sustainability. Ecozyon focuses on automating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting for businesses, allowing them to monitor their carbon footprint and sustainability activities in real time. What began as a vision to integrate space research and climate responsibility has evolved into a platform for building long-term ecological resilience through data, technology, and purpose.
Currently, I am a 2025 participant in UC Berkeley's REYES Program (Remote Experience for Young Engineers and Scientists). This experience is allowing me to learn new abilities in remote sensing, scientific communication, and environmental research.
These experiences have shown me that the path to NASA, and substantial effect, is not always straightforward or traditional. Sometimes it begins with a question. Sometimes with a silent act of hope. What matters is that you remain curious, continue to learn, and never stop reaching out.
To any young student reading this, you do not need to know all the answers. You only need the confidence to ask. The journey starts there.
References and Acknowledgments
I hope this guide inspires you to explore further, ask more questions, and become part of the global effort to understand and protect our planet.
Stay curious, stay inspired, and stay with science.🌍✨
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