Using satellite imagery has changed the way we think about the Earth. Time series of observations from space help us understand changes in the way we use the Earth showing us changes in the amount of forest, urban areas, crops as well as showing how wildfires or storms alter the planet.

Sensors like MODIS and now VIIRS show us how the planet's vegetation greens up every year, helping us to understand the Earth's phenology.

This week - Science Friday have created an interesting and informative video which explains how satellites are used to create the powerful images that have changed how we think of our home.