How do we measure Sea-Surface Height and Geostrophic Currents?
Current advances in space-based sensors allow for the detection of small variations within the world's oceans. Sensors such as TOPEX/Poseidon and Jason-1 are currently collecting height data over the oceans with centimeter accuracies through the use of microwave radar. This detailed ocean-height data can then be utilized to study mesoscale ocean dynamics. In addition, it has been shown that satellite-based altimetry data can be used for estimating geostrophic currents, as described by Polovina et al. (1999). These empirically-derived geostrophic currents, when combined with the satellite altimetry information, represents a valuable tool for the further understanding of our oceans. Currently, we utilize Jason-1 ocean height data collected by the AVISO Altimetry Group for the estimation of geostrophic currents. For more information about ocean altimetry techniques you can visit the TOPEX/Poseidon Mission page from the Jet Propulson Laboratory.

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