NASA satellites have detected vibrant colorful plumes off the US Mid-Atlantic coast, specifically near the Chesapeake Bay. These plumes are caused by a mix of river outflows, sediment, and phytoplankton blooms, which appear as green and turquoise swirls in the water. These blooms are critical for the planet because phytoplankton help recycle carbon and produce oxygen. By using tools like the PACE satellite, researchers can monitor these biological shifts to better understand ocean health and the connection between land runoff and marine ecosystems.
