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Meteorology

Adapted from Wikipedia · Explorer experience

A stunning view of towering clouds over Earth taken from the International Space Station by astronauts.

Meteorology

Meteorology is the fun and easy way to learn about the air around us and the weather we see every day. It helps us know about things like clouds, wind, and when it might rain or snow. People have been watching the weather for thousands of years!

Meteorologists are special scientists who study the weather. They use cool tools like thermometers to measure temperature and weather satellites to see storms from space. These tools help them make weather forecasts so we know what to wear or if we need an umbrella.

Long ago, people tried to guess the weather by looking at the sky and the moon. Today, we use computers and lots of data to make better guesses. Meteorology is important for many things, like helping pilots fly safely and letting farmers know when to plant their crops.

The word meteorology comes from ancient Greek. It means “the study of things in the sky.” So, next time you look up and see the clouds, remember you’re learning a little bit of meteorology!

Images

Beautiful white cumulus clouds floating in a clear blue sky.
Diagram showing the internal structure of the Earth
A beautiful rainbow-like sundog phenomenon seen in the Alpine mountains of Savoy, caused by sunlight interacting with ice crystals in the atmosphere.
A beautiful view of the Golden Gate Bridge glowing in the twilight from Baker Beach.
A Robinson anemometer, a device used to measure wind speed, featuring rotating cups.
A meteorologist using an early computer to analyze weather data in 1965.
A weather map showing atmospheric fronts over the United States, helpful for learning about weather patterns.
A colorful world map showing average ocean temperatures, created using scientific data and mapping tools.
A weather map showing surface pressure patterns over North America and surrounding oceans, helping to predict weather conditions.
A stunning satellite view of Earth from space showing land, oceans, ice, and clouds.

Related articles

This article is a child-friendly adaptation of the Wikipedia article on Meteorology, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Images from Wikimedia Commons. Tap any image to view credits and license.