Satellite Altimetry
Satellite altimetry is a remote sensing technique used to measure the height of the Earth's surface from space. Satellites equipped with radar or laser instruments send waves down to the ocean, land, or ice and measure how long it takes for the waves to bounce back. By knowing the speed of the waves and the time it takes for the return trip, scientists can calculate the distance to the surface. This information helps monitor sea level rise, track ice melt, and study ocean currents, contributing valuable data for understanding climate change and the Earth's changing environment.
Additional Insights
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Satellite altimetry is a technology that uses satellites to measure the height of the Earth's surface from space. By sending radar pulses down to the ocean or land and timing how long it takes for the signal to bounce back, satellites can calculate elevations and map sea level changes, land topography, and ice thickness. This information is crucial for understanding climate change, ocean currents, and natural disasters. Altimetry helps scientists monitor global warming, track hurricanes, and manage water resources by providing precise measurements of how the Earth's surface is changing over time.