The ensemble of oceanic data in the 1990's: Where we are now and how we approach the next decade

March 8, 1985, was the beginning of the second decode of satellite exploration of ocean surface and near surface phenomena. On this data the DoD/Navy Geosat system was launched to complete the geodetic mission begun by the NASA Seasat program in 1978. The Geosal altimeter will serve as the first of at least 15 sensors to be deployed on six satellites over the next five to six years. This paper will address the data implications that begin with the current NOAA system and the new Geosat mission and trace the near exponential growth in data to be derived from the ensemble of oceanic sensors planned in the near future.