Another Watchdog in Space: New Satellite Monitors Rising Seas

Our planet's oceans are rising, and it's largely due to climate change. As the Earth warms, glaciers and ice sheets melt, adding water to the oceans. The warming water also expands, further contributing to sea-level rise. Tracking these changes is vital for understanding the full impact of climate change and predicting future sea levels. That's where the Copernicus Sentinel-6B satellite comes in. It's the latest in a series of satellites dedicated to precisely measuring the height of the ocean surface. By comparing these measurements over decades, scientists can identify trends and understand how quickly sea levels are rising in different parts of the world. The Sentinel-6B works alongside its twin, Sentinel-6A (also known as Michael Freilich), launched in 2020. Together, these satellites provide an even more detailed and comprehensive picture of our oceans. The data they collect will be used to improve climate models, inform policy decisions, and help coastal communities adapt to rising sea levels. This mission is not just about measuring; it's about understanding. By combining the satellite data with other observations and climate models, scientists can better understand the complex processes that drive sea-level rise. This knowledge is crucial for predicting future changes and developing strategies to mitigate the impacts. The launch of Sentinel-6B represents a continued commitment to monitoring our planet's oceans and addressing the challenges of climate change. The mission builds on a legacy of over 30 years of satellite altimetry, providing a long-term record of sea-level change that is invaluable for climate research and adaptation efforts. The next step is to analyze the data coming in and cross-validate it with Sentinel-6A and ground based measurements to ensure accuracy.