This article explains how the TOPEX/Poseidon satellite has been used to measure changes in sea level due to heat storage in the ocean. The satellite is able to measure and compensate for the effects of solar and lunar tides so that the data can be used for the study of ocean circulation. Full description.

This kids page offers printable drawings to color, games, and puzzles. While performing these activities, students will learn about the TOPEX/Poseidon satellite and its mission to study the oceans. Full description.

This site explains how core samples are taken from the ocean floor. Topics include how research cruises are planned, who makes up the crew of a research vessel, and what a cruise track is. Links to additional information are embedded in the text. Full description.

This animation illustrates how tsunamis can be caused by underwater earthquakes, which are frequently located at subduction zones where oceanic plates are slipping under continental plates. Full description.

At this site, users can read and view pictures and videos that explain the mechanisms that trigger tsunamis, how they travel across great distances of the ocean, and what damage they cause. Full description.

Users can view imagery and read about tropical Pacific near-surface currents. The analysis is based on satellite altimeter- and scatterometer-derived sea level wind data. Materials presented here include monthly surface current maps, beginning with October 1992 and ending with the latest available satellite data (usually about one month delay). Links to related sites, a publications list, and a presentations ... Full description.

This resource offers access to a variety of materials, including general information about COOL, a photo gallery, press releases, talks and papers, and research projects. There are links to archived and real-time ocean data (sea surface temperature, surface currents and waves, autonomous glider data), and an "underwater weather forecast". Full description.

Until now, studies that involve the ocean floor have been at a disadvantage due to an almost complete lack of accurate marine base maps. Materials presented here serve to introduce the Pacific Seafloor Mapping Project, an endeavour by the United States Geological Survey to produce high-resolution base maps of the sea floor. These maps are intended for use in identifying areas of erosion and deposition ... Full description.

The Moon's gravity imparts tremendous energy to the Earth, raising tides throughout the global oceans. What happens to all this energy? Scientists studying data from the orbiting TOPEX/Poseidon satellite believe they now have an answer. Users can read about the tidal energy imparted upon the earth by the Moon and where scientists believe it is dissipated, and view animations that show these effects. ... Full description.

This resource uses text, images, maps and a laboratory exercise to explain how differences in the temperature and salinity of ocean water cause the formation of deep-ocean currents. It is part of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory's "Ocean Surface Topography from Space" website. This material is also available on the "Visit to An Ocean Planet" CD-ROM. Full description.