Abstract
Since ocean observations were conducted exclusively by ships and buoys, the global ocean had been poorly sampled both spatially and temporally until 1970's when the satellite observation started to significantly change the situation. In this paper, brief history of satellite-based global observation, together with its contribution to oceanography is reviewed in terms of target parameters such as ocean color, sea surface temperature and height, wind field, wave height, and sea ice. Prospects of experimental missions for surface salinity observation are also discussed. The paper points out the importance of international cooperation in view of much enhanced and well-coordinated operational observation system.
