Launch: March 17, 2002
Purpose: Measure Earth's gravitational field with high precision

The Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) consists of two spacecraft flying in tandem that will measure Earth's gravitational field very precisely. These measurements will enable a better understanding of ocean surface currents and ocean heat transport. The mission will be able to measure changes in sea-floor pressure and show how the mass of the oceans change. It will also measure and monitor ice sheets and changes in the storage of water and snow on the continents.

Under the joint U.S.-German mission, JPL is providing mission design and instrumentation.

More Information:
GRACE Home page