In order to realize the full potential of satellite radar altimetry data, it is necessary to take into account a number of error sources and apply their associated corrections with an accuracy that is compatible with the proposed measurement precision. There are two classes of altimeter error which play significant roles in signal processing. They are defined as:

• Errors that influence the measurement of the height of the ocean surface
• Errors that influence the interpretation of the measurements

• Instrument Error
  
• Propagation Medium Corrections
  
• Geoid Modeling Errors
  
• Effects of Temporal Variations
  
• Spacecraft Orbit Determination Error

Oceanographic Measurements and Geophysical Parameters