Monster Waves from the Sky: Satellites Capture 115-Foot Swells in the Pacific

Updated: December 04, 2025 03:49

Image Source: SURFER Magazine

Scientists have confirmed the observation of 115-foot (35-meter) waves from space, generated by a record-breaking Pacific storm in December 2024. Using advanced satellite missions like SWOT, researchers tracked the waves’ trajectory across thousands of miles, offering new insights into how ocean energy travels globally and impacts distant coastlines and ecosystems.

In a groundbreaking achievement, satellites have captured giant 115-foot waves unleashed by a colossal Pacific storm, marking the largest swells ever recorded from space. The observation was made possible by the Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite mission, an international collaboration that provides unprecedented accuracy in mapping ocean surface topography.

The storm, described as a “megastorm” in the North Pacific, generated waves so powerful that they propagated across oceans, influencing coastal conditions thousands of miles away. Researchers noted that these waves carried energy long after the winds subsided, reshaping our understanding of how storms affect global shorelines.

Beyond scientific significance, the waves also left a cultural mark, fueling legendary surfing events such as the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational in Hawaii and record-breaking rides at Maverick’s in California.

Major Takeaways

Record Observation: Satellites documented 115-foot (35-meter) waves—the largest ever tracked from orbit.

Storm Origins: Generated by a massive Pacific megastorm in December 2024.

Global Impact: Wave energy traveled thousands of miles, affecting distant coastlines.

Scientific Breakthrough: SWOT satellite enabled precise measurement of wave height and wavelength.

Cultural Note: Waves powered iconic surfing competitions in Hawaii and California.

Notable Updates

Energy Tracking: Researchers traced wave energy across 15,000 miles, from the North Pacific to the Atlantic.

Climate Insights: Findings highlight how extreme storms may intensify with climate change, posing risks to coastal communities.

Technological Leap: Satellite imaging now allows scientists to monitor ocean dynamics in real time, improving disaster preparedness.

Future Research: Data will refine models predicting storm surge, erosion, and long-term ocean behavior.

Conclusion: The observation of 115-foot waves from space represents a milestone in ocean science, blending cutting-edge technology with real-world impact. By revealing how storm-driven energy travels across the globe, the findings not only advance climate research but also underscore the interconnectedness of Earth’s oceans and the communities that depend on them.

Sources: Techno-Science , SciTechDaily , YouTube – ESA coverage

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