Evaluating the Performance of Jason-2 Open-Loop and Closed-Loop Tracker Modes

AbstractThe Poseidon-3 altimeter on board Jason-2 includes a significant new capability with respect to its predecessors, an open-loop [Determination Immediate d’Orbite par Doris Embarque (DIODE)/digital elevation model (DEM)] tracker mode. This innovative mode is capable of successfully tracking the backscatter signal over rapidly varying terrains, and thus it overcomes one of the limitations of the closed-loop Poseidon-2 tracker on board Jason-1. DIODE/DEM achieves this improvement thanks to a predetermined DEM on board that, when combined with DIODE orbit ephemeris, provides improved acquisition timing and reduced data loss in the coastal zone. As a further enhancement, Jason-3 and the Sentinel-3 programs will be capable of autonomously switching to this innovative mode in selected regions. To help recommend how these missions should utilize DIODE/DEM, the authors studied the impact of the tracker mode on the accuracy and precision of wave heights and wind speed, the continuity of the sea level climate...