Using Satellite-Based Terrestrial Water Storage Data: A Review

Abstract Land water storage plays a key role for the Earth’s climate, natural ecosystems, and human activities. Since launch of first Gravity Recovery Climate Experiment (GRACE) mission in 2002, spaceborne observations changes terrestrial (TWS) have provided unique, global perspective on human-induced freshwater resources. Even though they become much used within broader Earth system science community, space-based TWS datasets still incorporate important case-specific limitations which may not always be clear to users familiar with underlying processing algorithms. Here, we provide an accessible illustrated overview measurement concept, main available data products, some frequently encountered technical terms concepts. We summarize concrete recommendations how use combination other hydrological or climatological datasets, guidance avoid possible pitfalls. Finally, applications GRACE fields hydrology climate science. This review is written intention supporting future research facilitating satellite-based interdisciplinary contexts.