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A major objective of the TOPEX/POSEIDON satellite altimeter mission is to improve the observation of the ocean's general circulation. In principle, the measurement of sea surface height relative to the earth's geopotential surface or geoid can be used to determine a reference geostrophic circulation of the upper ocean. However, in practice, the errors in the geoid models have been too large for a meaningful reference field from any satellite altimeter. In this presentation, we will evaluate the best available geoid models in conjunction with TOPEX and WOCE hydrographic data from the Pacific. Preliminary work suggests that useful information may be available over large regions of the mid-latitude North and South Pacific. Estimates of the upper ocean meridional transport, thermocline circulation, and simple box model conservation budgets have provided some intriguing results. Comparisons with additional hydrographic, ADCP, and sub-surface float data, as well as ocean general circulation model output are desired.
by C. J. Koblinsky and C. Boone
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