2021 in review — A year of science
These selected stories from 2021 reflect our continued pursuit of understanding our environment and saving lives through novel research and applications, along with our commitment to mentoring and education. Our work is not finished, but we are optimistic about the future.
Best wishes for a peaceful, safe and Happy New Year,
R. Bradley Pierce, SSEC Director and Tristan L’Ecuyer, CIMSS Director
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The search for life on Venus — Past and present
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Tweets and machine learning – Helping the National Weather Service understand its social media impact
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Shark fins and internships – Solving real world problems through mentorship
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Collaborating on the first hyperspectral infrared sounder in geo orbit
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Flash drought — New index identifies important distinctions
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Scientists gain better understanding of icy plumes associated with violent tornadoes
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PREFIRE – CubeSat mission bolsters Arctic datasets for improved climate predictions
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Three accomplished high school seniors awarded 2021 Suomi Scholarship
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Sneak preview of TROPICS mission with rare pathfinder launch
![](https://www.ssec.wisc.edu/news/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2021/05/Coldest-Cloud-Temp-2018_Scott_Bachmeier-768x292.jpg)
Coldest cloud temps recorded by weather satellite
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Two SSEC researchers win NASA New (Early Career) Investigator Program awards
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CSPP GeoSphere provides new view of GOES-16 imagery
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How much snow falls on the world’s mountains each year?