From NASA – On Monday, Dec. 12, NASA is scheduled to launch a satellite that will survey water on more than 90 percent of the Earth’s surface. The Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite will measure the height of water bodies, generating data that will provide insights into how the ocean influences climate change. SWOT is equipped with the ability to collect data on ocean features less than 60 miles across, offering researchers images in unprecedented clarity. The information will also be used to improve flood forecasts, providing vital information to water management agencies. (more)