GOCE stands for Gravity field and steady-state Ocean Circulation Explorer. It is a European Space Agency (ESA) satellite mission that was launched in March 2009. GOCE was designed to map the Earth's gravity field with exceptional accuracy and resolution, providing valuable insights into the geoid, which is the surface of constant gravitational potential.
The primary objective of GOCE was to measure the variations in the Earth's gravity field caused by regional differences in mass distribution, such as mountains, ocean trenches, and underground structures. By doing so, it aimed to improve our understanding of the Earth's interior, its geodynamic processes, and the complex interactions between the geosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, and atmosphere.
GOCE utilized a highly sensitive gravity gradiometer that measured tiny variations in gravity across its orbit. This data was then combined with precise positioning information and satellite-to-satellite tracking measurements to create a high-resolution model of the Earth's gravitational field.
The accurate measurements provided by GOCE have numerous applications, including better understanding of ocean circulation patterns, sea-level variations, climate change, glacial processes, and even aspects of plate tectonics and volcanic activity. The data from GOCE also contributes to more accurate mapping and navigation systems, as well as facilitating improved models for satellite orbits and re-entry predictions, ensuring safer and more efficient operations in space.
In summary, GOCE is a satellite mission launched by the ESA, aimed at mapping the Earth's gravity field to enhance our understanding of numerous Earth system processes and support various scientific and practical applications.
