description Jason-2 Overview
A joint NASA/CNES/EUMETSAT/NOAA satellite launched in 2008 that extended the continuous sea-surface height record initiated by TOPEX/Poseidon.
insights Why this score
Jason-2 ranks #52 of 101 in the Spacecraft ranking, behind Vostok 2, ahead of Sputnik 2.
Extended precise ocean altimetry climate record, strong operational and science value.
help Jason-2 FAQ
What was the primary mission of the Jason-2 satellite?
Jason-2 was an oceanography satellite designed to measure the height of the sea surface across the globe. Launched in 2008, it extended a critical continuous climate record initiated by the earlier TOPEX/Poseidon mission.
Which space agencies partnered to build Jason-2?
The Jason-2 mission was a major international collaboration between NASA, CNES (the French space agency), EUMETSAT, and NOAA. This partnership ensured the continuous monitoring of global ocean circulation and climate change.
How does Jason-2 measure sea levels?
Jason-2 used a highly precise radar altimeter to bounce microwave signals off the ocean surface and measure the return time. By calculating the distance to the water, scientists could determine sea surface height to within a few centimeters.
When was Jason-2 decommissioned?
After over a decade of highly successful operations, Jason-2 was decommissioned in late 2019. It had far exceeded its original 3 to 5 year design lifetime before its orbit was safely lowered.
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