Earth Science: Unearth the Best Web Sites
Earth science, also known as geoscience, is the study of Earth as a system and all its component parts. Geophysics, oceanography, atmospheric science, geology and more all fall within its purview. There’s no need to be overwhelmed, however. Earth science inspires some of its brightest minds to share their enthusiasm and expertise online. This Earth Science Web Guide showcases the best sites to explore the sky above you and the depths beneath your feet.
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Expand All Guide SectionsWhat is Earth Science?
Use the sites below to understand what Earth science is, and what its fundamental ... read more »
Earth Science in School
Earth science is a great way to introduce young children to the scientific process as well as the ... read more »
Earth Science News and Blogs
Earth science is an extremely active field, with many of its fundamental discoveries having taken ... read more »
Earth Science Organizations
Despite its interdisciplinary nature, there are a surprising number of Earth science organizations, both professional and academic. These national and local societies exist to bring together professionals, students, academics and educators from all corners of the Earth science field.
Insights for Earth Science Organizations
- Many professional organizations’ Web sites tend to offer little content unless you’re a registered member. But many publish journals and magazines that can often be found online.
- Earth science research often involves enormous amounts of data, and thus Earth scientists tend to share a great deal of their observations and research. Below we’ve included some useful tools to find data on almost any Earth science phenomenon or topic.
- One of the first obstacles to advancing your career in Earth science might be confusion as to what opportunities and careers are available. Check out American Geological Institute’s Guide to Human Resources in the Geosciences for a primer on the types of opportunities available.
Top Sites for Earth Science Organizations
For Earth science government organizations and sites …
National Science Foundation
is not specifically an Earth science organization, but this Web site is a crucial resource for anyone in the scientific world. News, publications, funding information and lots of resources for professionals and students are all easily accessible.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
acts as the United States’ steward of the seas and air. The site is neatly organized by the ecosystems and activity NOAA regulates and the types of research it conducts. Besides research information, you’ll find links to the services the administration provides, such as the National Weather Service.
For Earth science professional and academic organizations …
American Geological Institute
is a federation of 44 separate organizations, dealing with education, professional development and policy. Look for links to all its activities and the many online resources it offers, including an Earth Science World Image Bank, data repositories and resources and materials for educators.
Association for Women Geoscientists
addresses the longtime problem of a lack of encouragement of and engagement with minorities and women in the scientific world. The organization seeks to promote the presence and success of women in geoscience and help bring in a new generation of female scientists.
The Geological Society of America’s
site can be a bit crowded but a few clicks bring you to plenty of resources. Students will find information on a large number of grants, intern and employment opportunities, and mentoring. There are also many tools on the site for educators and professionals. Visit the site for membership information.
For Earth science databases and data resources …
Global Change Master Directory
is a powerful tool to access data sets on Earth science from a large number of different sources. Browse or search the directory; every entry includes a description of the data set, a summary and links to the original source.
NASA’s
Earth Observatory has a wealth of data from which you can build time-lapse animations, as well as features on different phenomena, problems and news from around the world.
National Geophysical Data Center
is a no-nonsense source of global data. Not designed for an amateur audience, the site has a lot of technical information and powerful data sets.
National Atlas
brings you all kinds of maps of the United States full of historical, geophysical and other types of data. Customize the maps, make them interactive and order wall-size versions. Download data from the site for use in your Geographic Information System (GIS) applications.
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