Future Satellite Gravimetry and Earth Dynamics [Paperback]

New and more accurate techniques for satellite gravimetry will be available soon, with promising applications in Earth sciences. With this special issue the authors want to stimulate discussion among Earth scientists on objectives and preferences for future satellite gravimetry missions. This is an urgently needed discussion. Visions for follow-on missions have to be developed today, if they are to be realized within 10 years, given the required preparation time of such satellite missions.

Currently, a first generation of dedicated satellite missions for the precise mapping of the Earths gravity field is in orbit (CHAMP, GRACE, and soon GOCE). The gravity data from these satellite missions provide us with very new information on the dynamics of planet Earth. In particular, on the mass distribution in the Earths interior, the entire water cycle (ocean circulation, ice mass balance, continental water masses, and atmosphere), and on changes in the mass distribution.

The results are fascinating, but still rough with respect to spatial and temporal resolution. Technical progress in satellite-to-satellite tracking and in gravity gradiometry will allow more detailed results in the future. In this special issue, Earth scientists develop visions of future applications based on follow-on high-precision satellite gravimetry missions.

Geoid And Gravity In Earth Sciences  An Overview.- Future Satellite Gravimetry For Geodesy.- Challenges From Solid Earth Dynamics For Satellite Gravity Field Missions In The Post-Goce Era.- Time Variation In Hydrology And Gravity.- Future Gravity Missions And Quasi-Steady Ocean Circulation.- Future Benefits Of Time-Varying Gravity Missions To Ocean Circulation Studies.- Ice Mass Balance And Ice Dynamics From Satellite Gravity Missions.- Benefits To Studies Of Global Sea Level Changes From Future Space Gravity Missions.- Gravity And Topography Of Moon And Planets.- Science Requirements On Ful3