ESA - Living Planet Programme - ESA makes first GOCE dataset available

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ESA makes first GOCE dataset available

9 June 2010

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GOCE is mapping the global variations in Earth's gravity with extreme detail and provide a unique model of the gravity field and geoid. The geoid is the surface of equal gravitational potential defined by the gravity field and is crucial for improving our understanding of ocean circulation, sea-level change and terrestrial ice dynamics, all of which are affected by climate change. GOCE-derived data will also provide new insight into processes occurring in the lithosphere and upper mantle. In addition, data will be used for practical applications such as surveying and levelling.

Credits: ESA/AOES Medialab

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GOCE orbit is so low that it experiences drag from the outer edges of Earth's atmosphere. The satellite's streamline structure and use of electric propulsion system counteract atmospheric drag to ensure that the data are of true gravity.

Credits: ESA /AOES Medialab

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For around 20 months GOCE will be gathering data to map the Earth's gravity field with unprecedented accuracy and spatial resolution. The final gravity map and model of the geoid will provide users worldwide with well-defined data product that will be instrumental in advancing science and applications in a broad range of disciplines.

Credits: ESA–AOES Medialab

GOCE launch