 It was clear from the beginning of the CryoSat programme that an extensive series of measurements would be needed , both to understand interaction of the radar waves with the surface of the ice caps and to relate the measured freeboard of floating sea ice with its thickness . This latter , in particular , would have to take account of snow loading . For sea ice , which moves as it is blown by the wind , it was also necessary to develop techniques which could give consistent results when measured from platforms travelling at different speed ( scientists on the surface , helicopter @-@ towed sounders , aircraft @-@ borne radars and CryoSat itself ) . A number of campaigns were performed under a programme called CRYOVEX which aimed to address each of the identified areas of uncertainty . These campaigns continued through the development of the original CryoSat and were planned to continue after its launch . 
