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.