卫星测高是利用空间技术进行海洋观测的崭新技术手段。GEOSAT卫星的升空又使得这一研究向前大大地推进。本文简要介绍卫星测高在确定大地水准面精度、研究岩石圈特性、探测海底深部构造、研究海洋动力环境以及其经济效益和社会效益的最新进展。

Satellite altimetry is a new and advanced space technique of remote sensing and ocean observation developing during last thirty years. The GEOSAT satellite' s launching has greatly promoted this progress. This paper generally describes the recent progresses of satellite altimetry in the accuracy determination of geoid, the characteristic research of lithosphere, the deep structrue detection of ocean floor and the ocean dynamic environment research. Finally, the social and economic benefit results of satellite altimetry will be prospected.