Calval (CALibration / VALidation) is what determines data quality. This step involves a series of quality controls designed to ensure a continuous supply of data.

Calval teams calibrate the satellite instruments and determine the parameters, corrections, bias and so on to be applied to measurements. In particular, this task involves validating and refining algorithms in close collaboration with processing system development teams and users.

Once the mission is fully under way, routine Calval operations consist in determining data quality and keeping a check on instrument drift. Quality control is achieved through statistical data analysis, analyses at crossover points, and comparisons between orbit cycles. Data are also compared with other missions and with in situ sites and networks.

• Cycle per cycle, for Topex/Poseidon, Jason-1 and Envisat
• Envisat cross-calibration reports
• Annual reports:
  • Jason-1 annual validation report (January 2008) (pdf, 24 Mb)
  • Envisat annual validation report (January 2008) (pdf, 23 Mb)
  • Topex/Poseidon annual validation report (January 2006) (pdf, 26.1 Mb)
  • ERS-2 annual validation report (January 2006) (pdf, 5.8 Mb)