Is GLOBE Observer free?

Yes, GLOBE Observer is completely free to download and use.

What do users think of GLOBE Observer?

GLOBE Observer users feel mixed, based on 85 reviews with a 3.1/5 average rating.

What are GLOBE Observer's main features?

GLOBE Observer's key features include GLOBE Clouds, Mosquito Habitat Mapper, Land Cover Documentation, Tree Height Estimation. Standout differentiators: GLOBE Clouds, Mosquito Habitat Mapper, Tree Height Estimation, Scientific Data Submission.

Is GLOBE Observer available on iOS and Android?

Yes, GLOBE Observer is available on iOS (App Store).

GLOBE Observer

NASA

GLOBE Observer

Name: GLOBE Observer
Availability: InStock
Rating: 3.07059 (85 reviews)
Author: NASA

v3.8.0

NASA

85 ratings

App Store →

Report updated Apr 3, 2026

GLOBE Observer

v3.8.0

NASA

85 ratings

Students, educators, and citizen scientists of all ages interested in contributing to environmental research and the global scientific process.

App Store →

Education

What Is GLOBE Observer?

Launched Apr 7, 2016
Updated Oct 2024

GLOBE Observer is a NASA-backed citizen science app that enables users to contribute environmental data—specifically regarding clouds, mosquitoes, land cover, and trees—to global research databases. It serves as a bridge between the public and professional scientists at NASA and NOAA, facilitating ground-truth verification of satellite data. The app is positioned as a free educational and scientific tool for students and environmental enthusiasts worldwide.

What users think iIndependent intel reports to help builders create better apps or enhance existing ones. Still in beta, accuracy and relevancy get better every day. For informational purposes only.

Mixed

What does it look like?

What are the key features?

GLOBE CloudsDifferentiator

Allows users to make regular observations of cloud cover and compare them to satellite data.

Mosquito Habitat MapperDifferentiator

Locates mosquito habitats and identifies larvae to help reduce the threat of mosquito-borne diseases.

Land Cover DocumentationStandard

Enables users to document and categorize land surface features like trees, grass, and buildings.

Tree Height EstimationDifferentiator

Uses device camera and guided questions to calculate the height of trees.

Scientific Data SubmissionDifferentiator

Allows users to contribute environmental data to NASA, NOAA, and global research institutions.

What do users think? iIndependent intel reports to help builders create better apps or enhance existing ones. Still in beta, accuracy and relevancy get better every day. For informational purposes only.

Mixed

“Recent user voice shows a mixed sentiment.”

Medium confidence · 85 reviews available

What are the pros and cons?

Pros

Direct backing and credibility of NASA and NOAA
Unique integration with satellite data verification
Global reach through the established GLOBE Program
Completely free with no monetization friction

Cons

Low user rating (3.07) suggesting technical or UX issues
Niche appeal may limit mass-market adoption
Complex data collection protocols may discourage casual users

What is the market outlook?

Growth Opportunities

Gamification of data collection to increase student engagement
Expansion of protocols to include air quality or light pollution
Integration with classroom management systems for teachers

Market Threats

Specialized environmental apps with better UX
Dependence on government funding and agency priorities
Data quality risks from untrained users

What are the key takeaways?

GLOBE Observer is a divisive education app that is completely free. With a 3.1/5 rating from 85 reviews, it receives mixed feedback from users.

Best for: Students, educators, and citizen scientists of all ages interested in contributing to environmental research and the global scientific process.

How much does it cost?

Model: free

Tiers:

Completely free to use for all individuals

The app is a non-profit scientific tool funded by government agencies (NASA/NOAA), prioritizing data collection and public participation over monetization.

iOS Version

3.8.0

Release Date

Apr 7, 2016

iOS Price

Free