The key research topics and objectives of the Jason programme were established on the basis of the lessons learned from the experimental Topex/Poseidon mission.

The Jason-1 satellite, 5 times lighter, and approximately 3 times cheaper, provides accuracy equivalent and even better than its predecessor. Measurements can be used operationally within about 3 hours of receiving data.

Is the Earth warming up? How will the currents change? What are the mechanisms underlying the movements of the oceans ? These are some of the questions the Topex/Poseidon mission has answered.

However, many questions remain. The Jason programme makes it possible to pursue studies to understand, model and anticipate these natural phenomena. The objectives include characterizing ocean currents, analysing ocean seasons, understanding the tides, and keeping track of sea level, to mention but a few.

To ensure continuity of the type of measurements provided by Topex/Poseidon, CNES and NASA began studying a follow-up programme in 1993. An agreement was reached in 1996, and the programme defined by CNES teams with support from various scientific organizations (INSU-CNRS, Ifremer, Météo France, IRD, SHOM).

The Jason project called for a series of satellites. For the Jason-2 satellite launched on June 20, 2008, the partnership has being extended to include both NOAA and Eumetsat.