FAQ

• Which satellites are available in World Now?

Currently, you can select from the same instruments aboard either the Terra or Aqua satellites.

• Why is the image screen sometimes blank?

Depending on when the satellite last passed by that part of the world and updated its data, there may not be a current image available. In addition, there may be gaps in the data due to system maintenance or satellite manoevers.  Try switching between the Aqua and Terra satellites, as they update at different times.

• How does zooming work?

On any image, you can zoom in by using the usual two-finger pinching motion on the device screen.  In addition, you can zoom out to see a wider field of view by touching the zoom-out button on the iPhone and iPad versions, or from the menu button or Action Bar on Android devices.  By default, each image starts at the smallest field of view (highest resolution image).

• What are the different bands referred to in the satellite instruments?

Each band refers to a different wavelength range.  Depending on the wavelength, each band covers either visible light, infrared, or microwave, and gives different information about the earth surface.  For those interested, Band 1 is 620 - 670nm, Band 2 is 841 - 876nm, Band 3 is 459 - 479nm, Band 4 is 545 - 565nm, Band 5 is 1230 - 1250nm, Band 6 is 1628 - 1652nm, Band 7 is 2105 - 2155nm, and Band 31 is 10.78 - 11.28um.

• Can I store the images on my device?

The portion of the image shown on the screen can be stored on your device or shared on social media networks.  You can adjust how much of the image is displayed by zooming or scrolling.

• How current is a near real-time image?

Each image is usually between 6 and 24 hours old.