Researchers at Florida State University developed a new framework to predict kilometer-scale [1] underwater wave motions that interfere with satellite measurements.
This advancement allows the SWOT satellite to produce clearer ocean data by removing hidden interference. Improving the accuracy of these measurements is critical for monitoring global ocean health and enhancing the detection of early tsunami signals [2].
The research team worked in collaboration with the SWOT satellite mission team, a joint effort between NASA and the European Space Agency. The findings were published this month in the journal Science Advances [1].
Satellite-based oceanography often struggles with "hidden" underwater waves that distort surface readings. These waves, which operate on a kilometer-scale [1], create noise that can mask important geophysical data. By predicting these motions, the new framework allows scientists to correct the data and see the ocean surface more clearly.
While the primary goal of the framework is to improve general ocean-surface data quality [1], the ability to filter out this interference may also allow for the identification of tsunami signals that were previously hidden from satellite view [2].
The SWOT satellite continues to collect data globally, providing a high-resolution look at the ocean's surface. The implementation of this framework ensures that the data used by climate scientists and oceanographers is more precise and reliable [1].
“The framework predicts kilometer-scale underwater wave motions that interfere with satellite measurements.”
The ability to filter out kilometer-scale underwater noise represents a significant leap in satellite altimetry. By isolating these hidden waves, scientists can more accurately track ocean currents and sea-level changes, which are primary indicators of global climate change. Furthermore, the potential to detect early tsunami signals from space could improve early warning systems and save lives in coastal regions.
