Yet, long-term trends are difficult to detect when natural variability is so high. A comprehensive program of observations and modeling is necessary to improve our ability to make predictions on the future course of the Earth system. Terra will make comprehensive measurements of phytoplankton biomass as well as dissolved organic matter in the upper ocean. Fluorescence measurements will greatly improve the estimates of the rates of marine productivity. These data will complement Terra by providing essential information on processes that drive ocean circulation.
Winds affect the degree of ocean mixing as well as providing the momentum to drive ocean currents.
With these data, scientists can refine their models of the ocean's physical, biological, and chemical influences on global climatic and environmental change. Focused on key measurements identified by a consensus of U.S. and international scientists, EOS will enable research on the complex interactions of Earth's land, ocean, air, ice and life systems. Each individual swath of measurements can be compiled into global images as frequently as every two days. Over a month or more, in combination with measurements from other polar orbiting satellites, Terra measurements will provide accurate monthly-mean climate assessments that can be compared with computer model simulations and predictions.