Calibration and Validation of Hy-2A Derived Significant Wave Height Using Triple Collocation

Chinese first ocean dynamic environment satellite HY-2A was launched on August 2011, which has provided global significant wave height (SWH) for more than 5 years. In this study, the triple collocation error model has been introduced in the calibration and validation of HY-2A altimeter derived SWH. HY-2A wave height data are validated against in situ buoy data, and wave model hindcast from WaveWatch III, covering a period of four years. From the triple collocation validation analysis, HY-2A SWH data show an RMS (root mean square) of 0.2842 m and 0.2508 m for primary phase (Oct. 2011 to Apr. 2013) to the backup phase (Oct. 2013 to Apr. 2017).