Operational Geophysical Data Record (BUFR) - Jason-2

Abstract:
The Operational Geophysical Data Record (OGDR) - BUFR is a near real-time operational product delivered to users within 3 - 5 hours from instrument sensing. The main geophysical parameters in the OGDR product - derived from the Poseidon altimeter on board the Jason2 satellite - are significant wave height and ocean surface wind speed. Additionally, all necessary magnitudes contributing to the estimation of the sea surface height are provided, such as altimeter ranges, orbit data (altitude), water vapour correction, geophysical corrections and geophysical references. Other important parameters, intended to help with the interpretation and use of the data for different applications are also provided, including backscatter coefficients and a range of instrument and processing quality flags. Both 1Hz and 20Hz sampling data are included. The contents of this product directly map those of the OGDR product and mainly targets operational weather and ocean forecasting applications. This data set is jointly generated by NOAA and EUMETSAT.