Implementation of GRACE and GRACE-FO observation covariance estimates at JPL

Developing meaningful uncertainty quantifications for GRACE or GRACE-FO derived products, e.g. water storage anomalies, requires a robust understanding of the information and noise content in the observables employed in their estimation.

The stochastic models for GRACE and GRACE-FO K-Band, LRI, and GPS carrier phase and pseudorange observables employed in upcoming JPL solutions, along with notes on their implementation and development, will be presented. Within these models, the time-domain correlations for each of the observations are estimated, and then applied in the least squares estimate of monthly gravity field solutions. Reproducing results from other groups, the resulting formal errors of monthly solutions are improved.

It is envisioned that possible new Level 3 products can make these improved uncertainty quantifications accessible to the GRACE user community at large. Possible specifications for such products will be presented, and feedback from the community and discussion will be appreciated.