| Note |
The "Global Water Measurements" portal (https://blueice.gsfc.nasa.gov/gwm) provides satellite-based information relating to the current and historical status of the global oceans, lakes & reservoirs, and rivers & wetlands. Here, “status” is primarily centered on variations in surface elevation as provided by a suite of satellite-based radar altimeters. These instruments are onboard various space-agency (NASA/CNES/ESA/ISRO) missions with data set and auxiliary information sourced from NOAA, NASA/GSFC, and RADS. Variations in surface elevation enables changing sea level to be monitored and reveals the seasonal and inter-annual fluctuations in continental waters. The products integrate responses to regional and global climate variations as well as anthropogenic influences. Over land, short- and long-term drought, as well as approaching potential flood conditions, can be highlighted. The data sets span multiple decades and are available in near real time. Applications include water resources management, estimating irrigation potential for crop analysis, hazard monitoring, hydro-electric power stability, and regional security. |