OpenAltimetry

Discover and visualize altimetry data across the globe

A map-based visualization tool for exploring surface elevation data across the Earth, over time

Sample zoomed-in OpenAltimetry screen for ICESat-2

How to use OpenAltimetry for ICESat-2 data

The OpenAltimetry ICESat-2 interface has many powerful tools. Check out this guide to how to use the interface before you dive into exploring.

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OpenAltimetry opening screen for ICESat-2

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Visualize and download surface height elevation profiles of land ice, sea ice, land and vegetation, sea ice freeboard, ocean surface, and inland water surface.

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OpenAltimetry opening screen for ICESat, annotated

How to use OpenAltimetry for ICESat data

Learn tips and tricks for how to use OpenAltimetry to explore surface elevation data from the ICESat/GLAS satellite mission.

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Please note that OpenAltimetry processes data directly in the NASA Earthdata Cloud. Data may load very slowly so please be patient. We will be improving performance speed in a later update of the site.

Screenshot of Lago Greve in OpenAltimetry site — This screenshot is from the NASA-funded OpenAltimetry site. It shows Lago Greve, surrounding glaciers, and ICESat-2 tracks (pink and green lines).

What is OpenAltimetry?

NASA’s OpenAltimetry (OA) is a free and powerful map-based data visualization and discovery tool for exploring surface elevation profiles from ICESat-2 and ICESat satellite mission altimetry data. With OA, users can use explore how different types of surface heights have changed across the Earth over time, and all you need is a web browser.