What are the features and capabilities of the SWOT satellite used to analyze the depth of Death Valley’s temporary lake?

SWOT Satellite Helps Gauge the Depth of Death Valley’s Temporary Lake

California’s Death Valley, the driest place in North America, has hosted an ephemeral lake since late 2023. A NASA-led analysis recently calculated water depths in the temporary lake over several weeks in February and March 2024, demonstrating the capabilities of the U.S.-French Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite, which launched in December 2022.

Delving into SWOT’s Features

SWOT is an innovative satellite mission designed to monitor the Earth’s surface water with unprecedented detail. Equipped with advanced radar technology, it can measure water surface levels across vast areas, providing valuable insights into freshwater bodies. Unlike traditional altimetry satellites, which measure the height of water relative to a fixed reference point, SWOT employs interferometry to determine the slope of the water surface, enabling precise depth calculations.

Unveiling the Lake’s Bathymetry

Using data from SWOT, researchers found that water depths in the temporary lake, known as Lake Manly, ranged from about 3 feet (1 meter) to less than 1.5 feet (0.5 meters) over the course of about 6 weeks. This period included a series of storms that swept across California, bringing record amounts of rainfall.

The Importance of Collaborative Research

The SWOT mission is a testament to international collaboration in scientific research. Jointly developed by NASA and the French space agency, CNES, with contributions from the Canadian Space Agency and the UK Space Agency, SWOT represents a significant undertaking that has yielded invaluable data for scientists worldwide.

SWOT’s Far-Reaching Impact

Beyond measuring the depth of Death Valley’s temporary lake, SWOT’s capabilities extend to a wide range of applications. It can monitor changes in water storage in lakes, rivers, and wetlands, providing critical information for water resource management and disaster preparedness. SWOT also offers insights into ocean circulation patterns, sea level rise, and climate change.

A Glimpse into the Future

As SWOT continues its mission, scientists anticipate a wealth of new discoveries. By providing detailed measurements of water bodies around the globe, SWOT will enhance our understanding of the Earth’s freshwater resources, improve weather forecasting, and deepen our knowledge of global climate processes.

Expert Opinion

“The SWOT mission is a game-changer in water surface monitoring,” said Dr. Tamlin Pavelsky, the NASA freshwater science lead for SWOT. “Its unique radar technology enables us to measure water depths with precision, providing a comprehensive view of the Earth’s water systems.”