Earth observations from space enable the mapping and monitoring of our changing planet. Drivers and outcomes of key global environmental change dynamics will be illustrated and discussed, including sea and continental ice loss, deforestation, ocean warming, urbanization, agricultural expansion and intensification, and vegetation response to climate change. This introductory survey course will focus on the big question: Why are Earth observations from space critical for monitoring our changing planet? Students will gain an understanding of the capabilities offered by current Earth-observing satellite missions including how satellites view the Earth, what they can observe, and what significant problems can they solve.