New Satellite Tool Tracks Air Quality In Real Time
Public access to high-resolution satellite data helps you monitor air pollution levels and manage your asthma triggers.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Asthma
Live Poll
Should air quality regulations differentiate between local pollution sources and distant wildfire smoke?
NASA has released the TEMPO Lite tool to provide public access to high-resolution satellite data on atmospheric pollutants. This technology tracks formaldehyde and nitrogen oxides, which are key precursors to ground-level ozone and particulate matter.
Why it matters
By distinguishing between local pollution and distant sources like wildfire smoke, this data helps regulators and health officials better manage air quality. Understanding these patterns is essential for people sensitive to ozone and particulate matter levels in their environment.
Official atmospheric monitoring confirmed 13 ozone exceedances in Connecticut by July 4, 2026, amid widespread wildfire smoke. The exact contribution of individual pollution sources to these exceedances remains under investigation.
The players
NASA
A federal agency that conducts aerospace research and monitors Earth's atmosphere for environmental and public health insights.
Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory
A research institution in Boston that contributes to atmospheric science and satellite observation programs.
Georgia Institute of Technology
A research university in Atlanta that collaborates on atmospheric monitoring and air quality studies.
The details
The TEMPO satellite provides hourly observations by tracking formaldehyde and nitrogen oxides, two primary ingredients in the formation of ground-level ozone. Sunlight triggers the breakdown of volatile organic compounds into formaldehyde, which then reacts with nitrogen oxides to create ozone and particulate matter. The satellite further refines these readings by calculating smoke plume height, which allows scientists to estimate how much sunlight reaches the ground through the haze.
Timeline
Summer 2026: Wildfire smoke from Canada impacted regional air quality.
July 4, 2026: Connecticut reached 13 total ozone exceedances.
Health Landscape
The introduction of this tool marks a significant advancement in atmospheric monitoring relative to the NASA TEMPO mission. It updates how air quality is analyzed by providing hourly, high-resolution data on the precursor chemicals that drive regional ozone formation.
Public access to this satellite data allows you to better monitor potential triggers like ozone in your area throughout the day. If you have respiratory sensitivities, check current air quality alerts and discuss protective measures during high-ozone days with your physician.
The takeaway
Real-time satellite data provides a clearer picture of air quality by identifying whether pollutants are local or from distant wildfires. Use this tool to monitor air quality trends and minimize outdoor activity when ozone or particulate matter levels are high.
Further reading
Learn more about managing your environment in our Asthma section.
More information
Track atmospheric pollutants in your region using the TEMPO Lite interactive mapping tool.
Live Poll
Should air quality regulations differentiate between local pollution sources and distant wildfire smoke?
