AMR and Poseidon3 characterisation files used in the Jason-2 processing chains have been updated on the 18th of February 2009. Impact is expected on Jason-2 IGDR product quality beginning cycle 23.

On 18 February 2009, an update of instruments characterisation files used in the processing of Jason-2 IGDR products will impact operational products.
These files are used to characterise the Advanced Microwave Radiometer (AMR) and Poseidon-3 altimeter and the evolution of their accuracy over time. This update is part of the ongoing Jason-2 calibration/validation activities, currently focussing on the validation of the high accuracy Jason-2 off-line products (GDR).
The expected impact on the product quality is as follows (beginning cycle 23): 

• +1.1 mm on Sea State Bias correction to the altimeter range
• +0.7 m/s on wind speed

Note that, in line with the plan for nominal operations, the AMR characterization file will be updated regularly in the Jason-2 product processing in an automatic way with negligible impact on product quality and no further announcements will be issued, these automatic updates being considered nominal product adjustments.