The Prediction and Mapping of Geoidal Undulations from GEOS-3 Altimetry
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Date
1977-12
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Ohio State University. Division of Geodetic Science
Abstract
From the adjusted altimeter data, one gets an approximation to the geoid height in ocean areas. This paper describes methods developed in the Department of Geodetic Science to produce 'geoid' maps in these areas. Geoid heights are obtained for grid points in the region to be mapped, and two of the parameters critical to the production of an accurate map are investigated. These are (i) the spacing of the grid, which must be related to the half-wavelength of the altimeter signal whose amplitude is the desired accuracy of the contour, and (ii) the method adopted to predict the grid values. In the final production program, least squares collocation was used to find geoid undulations on a 1° grid in the mapping area. Twenty maps, with their associated precisions, have been produced and are included in this report. These maps cover the Indian Ocean, South western and North eastern portions of the Pacific Ocean, the South west Atlantic and the U. S. Calibration Area. Lack of data has precluded further mapping at this stage.
Description
Prepared for National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Wallops Flight Center, Wallops Island, Virginia: Contract No. NAS6-2484, OSURF Project No. 783904