NASA’s Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite (ICESat-2) launched in 2018 and continues to provide global elevation measurements for diverse scientific applications and investigations. On-orbit discoveries support advancements in cryospheric science, terrestrial ecology, hydrology, bathymetry, atmospheric science and oceanography. These studies leverage the high spatial and temporal resolution of the unique ICESat-2 laser altimeter, a state-of-the-art instrument. To date, results support environmental characterization but also expand to regional studies and recovery of seasonal dynamics for Earth climate processes. This cross-discipline mission not only supports innovative science but is an example of critical advancement in engineering and technology.

This session will provide a forum for current scientific and technological achievements associated with on-board algorithm development, instrumentation performance, and data analysis over the broad range of surface measurements; from 88S to 88N. Submissions associated with terrestrial, hydrologic, atmospheric and oceanographic applications are all encouraged as are those associated with on-orbit mission operations.