Abstract
Estimation of mesoscale eddy statistics is but one objective of satellite missions involving altimetry, and but one of many important applications of the altimeter. The discussion which follows is intended to contribute to a common understanding of the value and feasibility of this objective, and to focus on requirements and desiderata which may be in common or in conflict with other applications, particularly concerning orbital repeat strategy. The principal conclusions are:
Repeat tracks to an accuracy of 10 km every 3–5 days are needed for an observing period of at least 6 months, and preferably longer, together with simultaneous measurements of sea-state. The short repeat period is to reduce contamination by ionospheric and atmospheric moisture fluctuations. Useful eddy statistics at lower frequencies could be obtained from randomly drifting or long period repeat orbits during the remainder of the mission.
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References
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© 1984 D. Reidel Publishing Company
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Bretherton, F.P. (1984). A Sampling Strategy for Altimeter Measurements of the Global Statistics of Mesoscale Eddies. In: Gautier, C., Fieux, M. (eds) Large-Scale Oceanographic Experiments and Satellites. NATO ASI Series, vol 128. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-6421-1_4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-6421-1_4
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