Jason-3 is a joint mission between the United States' National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and France's Centre National d'Études Spatiales (CNES). It was launched in January 2016 and has since been collecting high-resolution measurements of the ocean's surface.
Here's how Jason-3 helps in monitoring El Niño:
Sea Surface Height Measurements: El Niño events are characterized by an abnormal warming of the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, often accompanied by changes in sea level. Jason-3's radar altimeter precisely measures sea surface height, allowing scientists to identify the development of El Niño conditions and track their progression.
Temperature Observations: In addition to sea surface height, Jason-3 also measures ocean surface temperatures. These observations help scientists monitor the warming of the equatorial Pacific, which is a key indicator of El Niño events.
Improved Forecasting: By combining Jason-3's data with other satellite observations and oceanographic models, scientists can make more accurate predictions of El Niño events and their potential impacts. This information is crucial for countries and regions affected by El Niño, as it allows them to prepare for extreme weather events and mitigate the associated risks.
Climate Research: Jason-3's long-term ocean observations contribute to a better understanding of global climate processes and variations. El Niño events are part of the natural climate variability, but they can be influenced by human activities such as greenhouse gas emissions. By monitoring El Niño, scientists can gain insights into how climate change may affect these events in the future.
Overall, the international ocean satellite Jason-3 plays a critical role in monitoring El Niño events and providing essential data for climate research and weather forecasting.
