Satellite altimetry for ocean and coastal applications: promoting and supporting applications user communities

A continuous global satellite radar altimetry data time series spanning 32 years has made significant advances in research and operational applications possible. The TOPEX/Poseidon satellite mission, launched in 1992, was intended to test technology and data systems to precisely measure height variations across the ocean—"ocean surface topography” (OST) —on a global scale from space. The mission performed so successfully that it was followed by the “Jason-series” satellites; Jason 1, Jason 2, Jason 3, and the newest, Sentinel 6 Michael Freilich, with more satellites in the series in preparation. These U.S.-European collaborations have significantly enhanced understanding of ocean and coastal dynamics and have made large-scale reservoir and lake observations since 1992. The 2022 launch of the Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) mission has further advanced knowledge of ocean observations and extends observations to high-resolution land surface water observations. OST data have been crucial in monitoring global sea level rise, understanding ocean circulation and heat content, and supporting coastal impact assessments and climate modeling. Beyond research, OST observations benefit operational oceanographic and water resource organizations and weather forecasting agencies worldwide. They inform shipping, fishing, marine operations, and decision-making in coastal and disaster management. The continuous OST record aids in analyzing trends, tracking sea-level rise, assessing ocean health, and supporting climate change mitigation strategies. Partnerships between NASA, the French space agency, Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales (CNES), NOAA, the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) Space Agency (ESA), and the European meteorological and EUMETSAT have been instrumental in developing an essential climate data record, providing substantial value to both research and operational communities. This talk, summarizing findings from [1], will highlight the OST time series' value and applications in ocean-focused operations and private sector use.