TOPEX/Poseidon Mission: Global Measurements of Sea Level at Unprecedented Accuracy

The TOPEX/Poseidon mission, a joint project between the United States and France is described with particular emphasis on measurement capabilities and performance. This satellite provides measurements of global sea level, using 2 microwave radar altimeters, a microwave radiometer, and 3 precision tracking systems. The satellite and measurement systems will be discussed, and science results given.