Geodetic Satellite Altimeter Study Final Engineering Report

This report presents the results of an eight-month study of signal processing techniques applicable to the Geodetic Satellite Altimeter program. The first subject treated is the analysis of random errors in the altitude measurement process which arise from signal fluctuations and receiver noise. Results are presented based on both theoretical analyses and computer simulation of the altimeter concept. Characteristics of the electromagnetic energy scattered from the ocean-surface are then discussed from the standpoint of identifying statistical properties of the altimeter signal and for identifying measurement biases that may arise in the scattering process. The report concludes with a discussion of the presently known oceanographic factors pertaining to the scattering problem.