Subpolar Southern Ocean Seasonal Variability of the Geostrophic Circulation From Multi‐Mission Satellite Altimetry

Abstract A novel multi‐satellite product is used to shed light on the sea surface height seasonal cycle and associated geostrophic circulation in subpolar Southern Ocean. We find three main modes of variability governing Sea Level Anomaly cycle, all them primarily governed by wind forcing. The mode with seasonality gyres large‐scale stress curl, qualitatively consistent Sverdrup dynamics. second related Antarctic Slope Current (ASC), coastal easterlies, a rapid circumpolar propagation anomalous sea‐level along continental slope that dynamically so‐called Mode. first two induce an acceleration ASC winter. third appears be driven ice‐modulated induces offshore extension from autumn