SeaTrac Supports Satellite Altimetry Calibration with NOAA and NASA
In a collaborative mission with NOAA’s Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL) and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, SeaTrac deployed the SP-48 off Point Conception, Calif., to perform satellite altimetry calibration and atmospheric/ionospheric measurements.
- Year: 2025
- Operational Area: Point Conception, Calif.
Purpose
Traditionally, calibration missions rely on fixed buoys with GPS receivers and atmospheric sensors. In this mission, the SP-48 replaced the buoy, station-holding offshore and collecting the same data on sea surface height and atmospheric moisture.
Results
The USV’s measurements aligned with buoy and satellite data to validate sea surface height and ionospheric moisture, demonstrating cost-effective alternatives to buoy deployment.
During the mission, onboard cameras unexpectedly captured a Starlink rocket launch roughly five miles off the coast – offering symbolic synergy between satellite systems and autonomous marine platforms.
