Low-Earth-orbit satellite systems in ocean science

Scientists and engineers constantly face the challenge of getting data from remote areas of the world's oceans back to their laboratories. Low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellites already provide routine access to such data. We review the LEO satellite telemetry systems used in ocean sciences. The comparison of available and planned systems includes system design, satellite orbits, data. We review the LEO geographic coverage, and required hardware (e.g., transmitter size, power consumption and cost). The relative capabilities of current-operational systems and of those systems that have frequency allocation, FCC approval, and financing are discussed.