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Coral Reef Watch Satellite

A Coral Reef Watch satellite monitors the temperature of the world’s oceans.
(NOAA In Space Collection)

A Coral Reef Watch satellite monitors the temperature of the world’s oceans. When ocean waters get too hot, corals release the microscopic algae that provide them with color and, more importantly, food. Without the algae, the corals turn white—or bleach—and may die. More about coral reef ecosystems can be found in our Coral Reefs featured story.