Leveraging Satellite Remote Sensing for Offshore Environments
Bathymetry
Highlights
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Remote sensing methods offer unparalleled capabilities for understanding a variety of topographical and geological settings, and their applications extend far beyond dry land. Optical and radar imaging techniques provide efficient, economical solutions for marine and coastal assessments. ​
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These technologies are changing how we study and manage offshore environments. They provide insights that were hard or expensive to get before. Here are three key areas where satellite remote sensing is making a significant impact:
Bathymetry: Measuring Coastal Erosion and Cliffs
Bathymetric measurements use satellite data to determine the depth of shallow water. This technique involves processing satellite imagery to estimate water depths on a pixel-by-pixel basis. By regularly assessing changes in nearshore depths, researchers can detect and monitor the condition of coastlines over time. The key applications include:
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Coastal Erosion Monitoring: By measuring depth changes near shorelines, bathymetric data can reveal patterns of sediment displacement and erosion. These insights are critical for understanding the impact of storms, rising sea levels, and human activity on coastal zones.
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Cliff Stability Assessment: Changes in underwater topography near cliffs can indicate potential instability, helping to predict collapses or other hazards.
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Mapping Marine Habitats: Bathymetry also supports the identification of seafloor habitats, aiding marine conservation efforts and sustainable development projects.
With advances in satellite technology, bathymetric mapping has become a cornerstone of modern coastal assessments, offering an efficient alternative to traditional sonar-based methods.
DInSAR Analysis: Monitoring Coastal Erosion and Cliffs
Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) is a powerful tool for tracking ground movement, including along coastlines. By analysing radar data from multiple satellite passes, DInSAR detects subtle changes in land elevation with millimetre-level precision. This technique has proven invaluable for:
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Erosion Rate Assessment: By measuring ground movement, DInSAR can quantify the extent of cliff erosion over time. This information helps predict future changes and assess risks to nearby infrastructure.
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Hazard Mapping: Combining radar data with optical imagery enables a comprehensive view of coastal erosion, providing authorities with actionable insights for disaster preparedness.
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Predictive Modelling: By tracking how fast the ground moves, we can create maps. These maps help us predict areas at risk of erosion or collapse.
DInSAR has become a critical tool for coastal management, enabling proactive measures to mitigate risks and protect valuable assets.
