A satellite that can measure tiny variations in the Earth's gravity field will be one of Europe's most challenging space missions to date. Goce, due for launch next year, looks like a spyplane from a movie.
Its arrow shape, fins, and electric engine help keep the satellite stable as it flies through the wisps of air still present at an altitude of 260km.
Goce data will have many uses, probing hazardous volcanic regions and bringing new insight into ocean behaviour.
The latter, in particular, is a major driver for the mission.
By combining the gravity data with information about sea-surface height gathered by other spacecraft, scientists will be able to track the direction and speed of ocean currents.
"If we want to improve our climate models then we need to improve our knowledge of how the oceans move, and Goce will help us do that," mission scientist Dr Mark Drinkwater, from the European Space Agency (Esa), told BBC News.
More at:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/6919016.stm
