SUMMARY: Although they were designed to track the height of the world's oceans, a few NASA satellites are working surprisingly well at measuring the height of inland lakes and reservoirs as well. This additional tracking ability allows scientists to monitor water levels in out-of-the-way places. For example, TOPEX/Poseidon satellite can measure water height to within 4-5 cm (2 inches), and surveys the entire Earth together with the Jason-1 satellite. By knowing water levels, scientists can predict if there will be water shortages or problems with crops long in advance.

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