SSALTO/DUACS: 15 years of Precise Consisten Multi-Mission Altimetry Data
Abstract
An overview of SSALTO/DUACS is given: key features, system architecture, processing used, products and users, and ongoing upgrades. DUACS is part of the CNES multi-mission ground segment (SSALTO). It processes data from all altimeter missions: Jason-1, T/P, ENVISAT, GFO, ERS1/2 and even GEOSAT. It provides a consistent and homogeneous catalogue of products for varied applications, both for near real time applications and offline studies. In 2005 the DUACS system has performed a complete re- analysis of all altimeter data using the state-of-the-art corrections, models and references recommended by the altimeter community. It is the first time in altimetry history that such a homogeneous and consistent merging of all missions is carried out. The system uses common processing facilities for global and regional applications, and it ensures that upgrades are consistently applied on all products to better serve the altimetry user community. DUACS continually evolves as a user-driven altimetry service. Upgrades have been applied every 3 to 6 months since the beginning of the project in 1997, and a significant research, development and integration effort will be maintained in the coming months, notably on data timeliness.
- Publication:
-
ESA Special Publication
- Pub Date:
- July 2006
- Bibcode:
- 2006ESASP.614E..86D