GLAS/ICESat L1B: Global Waveform-based Range Corrections Data

GLAH05 Level-1B waveform parameterization data from the GLAS/ICESat mission includes parameters from the waveform characterization procedure for calculating surface elevation, slope, and relief. The data contain parameterizations of both transmitted and received pulses, with retracking algorithms tuned separately for ice sheets and land surfaces. It is produced by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and was last updated on 2026-03-05.

Use Cases

• Calculate ice sheet surface elevation changes based on the standard waveform parameterization.
• Analyze land surface roughness and slope characteristics based on the alternative waveform parameterization.
• Model sea ice freeboard and thickness using the retracked received pulse data.
• Study global topography and relief at the satellite footprint scale.

Strengths

• Data includes dual retracking algorithms specifically tuned for ice sheets and land surfaces.
• Produced by the authoritative source National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
• Last update timestamp is precisely recorded as 2026-03-05 19:58:21.034098.

Limitations

• Row count and dataset size are unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.
• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• Description metadata is limited; actual data quality requires manual inspection after download.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Collection Method

Satellite laser altimetry from the GLAS/ICESat mission.

Freshness

Last updated 2026-03-05 19:58:21.034098; freshness should be verified.

Geography

Global