Ocean Salinity Satellite Launch A Success; Will Map All Oceans Once Each Week

The US space agency on Friday launched a satellite to observe levels of salt on the surface of the world's oceans and measure how changes in salinity may be linked to future climate. The Aquarius/SAC-D spacecraft launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California at 7:20 am Pacific time (1420 GMT).

The orbiting science instrument will aim to map the entire open ocean every seven days from its position 408 miles (657 kilometers) above Earth, producing monthly estimates that show how salt levels change over time and location.

"The mission will survey the salinity levels at the surface of the ocean and seas and will complete the most detailed summary of conditions ever undertaken," NASA said.

"Until Aquarius, salt-content observations were mostly taken by ships traversing their trade routes. The information was incomplete, researchers say."

EDIT

http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/nasa-launches-oceanwatch-satellite-2295991.html

Though it could be even better. How about: 'Sea Salinity Satellite Sendoff a Super Success, Says Space Service' :)

This is going to lead to lots of interesting science. With T and S one can then calculate the entire density field at the sea surface, which determines if waters will sink or rise.