Geodynamic applications of altimeter data

Geodetic-geophysical applications in the area of geodynamics are examined in terms of goals, present accuracies, state of the art, and future potential, including accuracy requirements. The analysis of Seasat satellite altimetry data and their application to the eastern Mediterranean are reported. Global geodetic and local geophysical aspects are considered. A strong correlation is found between satellite altimetry and oceanic bathymetry for the eastern Mediterranean. The possibility of using altimeter data to detect topographic and density variations beneath the ocean surface and to determine the temporal and spatial variations of the sea surface relative to an equipotential surface is addressed. The determination of oceanic tides as a further application is discussed.