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When the sea suddenly becomes readable: Satellite discovers hidden eddy off Mallorca

A hidden eddy off Mallorca comes into view

New satellite and sea instruments revealed a hidden eddy off Mallorca and improved understanding of local currents.

Published: April 22, 2026
When the sea suddenly becomes readable: Satellite discovers hidden eddy off Mallorca

Answer

Why did satellites detect a hidden eddy off Mallorca?

Researchers used new satellite data from the SWOT mission together with instruments in the water to spot a large rotating current offshore Mallorca. The eddy was hard to detect with older satellite methods because it was relatively small and the sea-surface signal was subtle. Combining satellite observations with buoys and gliders made its shape and movement much clearer.

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