Two very thin skins of fluid cover the surface of our planet: a low density layer consisting mainly of gases (our atmosphere), and a higher density layer consisting mainly of water (our oceans). However the two layers are not completely distinct, and exchanges of water, gases, particulate matter, heat and momentum are continually taking place across the interface between them. These exchanges have a profound effect on the development of our weather systems, and in the longer term, the progress of climate variability and change. Explore the sub-topics to learn more about this fascinating interface. (Meteosat image copyright Eumetsat)
Ship-sinking monster waves revealed by ESA satellites
ESA News
22 July 2004
Once dismissed as a nautical myth, freakish ocean waves that rise as tall as ten-storey apartment blocks have been accepted as a leading cause of large ship sinkings. Results from ESA's ERS satellites helped establish the widespread existence of these 'rogue' waves and are now being used to study their origins.
Two very thin skins of fluid cover the surface of our planet: a low density layer consisting mainly of gases (our atmosphere), and a higher density layer consisting mainly of water (our oceans). However the two layers are not completely distinct, and exchanges of water, gases, particulate matter, heat and momentum are continually taking place across the interface between them. These exchanges have a profound effect on the development of our weather systems, and in the longer term, the progress of climate variability and change. Explore the sub-topics to learn more about this fascinating interface. (Meteosat image copyright Eumetsat)