Satellite Based Tsunami Detection with GNSS Reflectometry

German- Indonesian Tsunami Early Warning System

[1]

© GFZ

Within the GITEWS [2] project a feasibility study for satellite-based tsunami detection utilizing GNSS-R measurements was performed. The study is based on realistic tsunami wave propagation modeling and simulated GNSS-R measurements from Low Earth Orbit with multi-satellite constellations [1]. A major result of the investigations is, that GNSS-R, while using signals from GPS, Galileo and GLONASS in parallel with a constellation of 18 satellites, can detect tsunami waves world-wide within about 15 minutes. However further technical constraints have to be taken into account. The results of the feasibility study are a major motivation of the small satellite activities in GFZ section GPS/Galileo Earth Observation.  

References:

[1] Stosius, R.; Beyerle, G.; Hoechner, A.; Wickert, J.; Lauterjung, J. (2011): The impact on tsunami detection from space using GNSS-reflectometry when combining GPS with GLONASS and Galileo on GNSS-Reflectometry tsunami detection from space. Advances in Space Research, 47, 5, 843-853, doi EDOC: 16450 | 10.1016/j.asr.2010.09.022