Mapping Marathon Heat With NASA Tech at the Paris Olympics

Over the past century, Paris has warmed significantly, presenting a challenging environment for the 2024 Olympic marathon runners.

The course features tough terrain and historical landmarks, while the athletes also face urban heat effects, exacerbated by limited green spaces and dense architecture. Innovative satellite imaging has improved monitoring of these conditions, offering crucial data to help mitigate heat-related risks for competitors.

Climate Change and Olympic Challenges
Since Paris hosted the Olympic Games a century ago, temperatures in the city have increased by 3.1 degrees Celsius (5.5 degrees Fahrenheit). Hot days with highs above 30°C (86°F) are now nearly three times more frequent than in 1924.