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Science and user needs for observing global mass transport to understand global change and to benefit society

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 16:50 authored by Pail, R, Bingham, R, Braitenberg, C, Dobslaw, H, Eicker, A, Guntner, A, Horwath, M, Ivins, E, Longuevergne, L, Panet, I, Wouters, B, Matt KingMatt King
Satellite gravimetry is a unique measurement technique for observing mass transport processes in the Earth system on a global scale, providing essential indicators of both subtle and dramatic global change. Although past and current satellite gravity missions have achieved spectacular science results, due to their limited spatial and temporal resolution as well as limited length of the available time series numerous important questions are still unresolved. Therefore, it is important to move from current demonstration capabilities to sustained observation of the Earth’s gravity field. In an international initiative performed under the umbrella of the International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics, consensus on the science and user needs for a future satellite gravity observing system has been derived by an international panel of scientists representing the main fields of application, i.e., continental hydrology, cryosphere, ocean, atmosphere and solid Earth. In this paper the main results and findings of this initiative are summarized. The required target performance in terms of equivalent water height has been identified as 5 cm for monthly fields and 0.5 cm/year for long-term trends at a spatial resolution of 150 km. The benefits to meet the main scientific and societal objectives are investigated, and the added value is demonstrated for selected case studies covering the main fields of application. The resulting consolidated view on the required performance of a future sustained satellite gravity observing system represents a solid basis for the definition of technological and mission requirements, and is a prerequisite for mission design studies of future mission concepts and constellations.

Funding

Australian Research Council

History

Publication title

Surveys in Geophysics

Volume

36

Issue

6

Pagination

743-772

ISSN

0169-3298

Department/School

School of Geography, Planning and Spatial Sciences

Publisher

Kluwer Academic Publ

Place of publication

Van Godewijckstraat 30, Dordrecht, Netherlands, 3311 Gz

Rights statement

Copyright 2015 Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Expanding knowledge in the earth sciences

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