Jason-2: Using Satellite Altimetry to Monitor the Ocean

 Available online: https://www.meted.ucar.edu/training_module.php?id=534

Altimeters onboard satellites such as Jason-2 measure sea surface height and other characteristics of the ocean surface. These characteristics are linked to underlying processes and structures, making altimetry data useful for understanding the full depth of the global ocean. This 75-minute module explores major discoveries made possible by altimetry data in oceanography, marine meteorology, the marine geosciences, climate studies, the cryosphere, and hydrology. For example, altimeters have played a vital role in detecting and monitoring sea level rise and its relation to climate change. The module also describes many of the practical applications of altimetry data, for example, in hurricane forecasting and monitoring climate events such as ENSO. Finally, the module describes Jason-2, which was launched in 2008, its products and services, and the Ocean Surface Topography Mission (OSTM), of which it is a part. OSTM is a collaboration between EUMETSAT and CNES (Europe) and NOAA and NASA (United States).

Disclaimer regarding 3rd party resources: WMO endeavours to ensure, but cannot and does not guarantee the accuracy, accessibility, integrity and timeliness of the information available on its website. WMO may make changes to the content of this website at any time without notice.

The responsibility for opinions expressed in articles, publications, studies and other contributions rests solely with their authors, and their posting on this website does not constitute an endorsement by WMO of the opinion expressed therein.

WMO shall not be liable for any damages incurred as a result of the use of its website. Please do not misuse our website.

Language(s): English

Tags: Climate ; Oceanography ; Hydrology ; Weather forecasting ; Climate prediction ; Tsunami ; Glacier ; Sea ice ; Marine meteorology ; Radar echo ; Cryosphere ; Climate services ; Lesson/ Tutorial ; Aral Sea ; Competencies for Provision of Climate Services ; Marine Weather Forecasters ; Satellite Skills and Knowledge for Operational Meteorologists Add tag