The problem of oceanographic state estimation, by means of an ocean general circulation model (GCM) and a multitude of observations, is described and contrasted with the meteorological process of data assimilation. In practice, all such methods reduce, on the computer, to forms of least-squares. The global oceanographic problem is at the present time focussed primarily on smoothing, rather than...

Water level reduction with GNSS [FIG Commission 4 Working Group 4.2 2006, Dodd and Mills 2011] requires the availability of the ellipsoidal heights of CD, i.e. the Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) as adopted by the International Hydrographic Organization [International Hydrographic Organization, 2011, Technical Resolution 3/1919]. LAT is defined as the lowest tide level to occur under average met...

Mesoscale oceanic eddies are routinely detected from instantaneous velocities derived from satellite altimetry data. While simple to implement, this approach often gives spurious results and hides true material transport. Here it is shown how geodesic transport theory, a recently developed technique from nonlinear dynamical systems, uncovers eddies objectively. Applying this theory to altimetry...

National space law in general aims to implement a State's obligations under the UN Space Treaties authorize and supervise public private sector activities limit liability risk exposure of State. However, Earth observation data regulation is becoming increasing importance as becomes more mature, although until recently only few States have enacted legislation for activities. The purpose this art...

As an integral response to its mass distribution, the structure of the Earth’s gravitational field represents an important source of information about our planet. Its knowledge is therefore important for the Earth as a system and for geodesy, solid Earth physics, and oceanography in particular. For the first time in space geodesy, dedicated gravity field missions are being realized during this ...

The paper provides a review of recent results on mesoscale ocean dynamics derived from satellite altimetry. Since 1992, we have had an unprecedented 15 year high-resolution monitoring of the ocean mesoscale field. Altimetry is often used in mesoscale studies in synergy with other remote sensing techniques and in-situ data. This global, high-resolution data set has allowed oceanographers to quan...

Might the gravity levels found on other planets and on the moon be sufficient to provide an adequate perception of upright for astronauts? Can the amount of gravity required be predicted from the physiological threshold for linear acceleration? The perception of upright is determined not only by gravity but also visual information when available and assumptions about the orientation of the body...