11. Remote Sensing Oceanography
Remote sensing oceanography involves the use of satellites and other remote sensing platforms to collect and analyze data on the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the ocean. This data is invaluable to understanding the ocean’s complex processes and how they affect the global climate, coastal ecosystems, and marine resources. There are several key applications of remote sensing oceanography and how they benefit the Blue Economy.
Monitoring Ocean Climate and Circulation
The ocean plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate by absorbing and redistributing heat and other gasses (such as carbon dioxide). Remote sensing technologies, such as satellite altimeters, radiometers, and scatterometers, have enabled scientists to monitor global ocean circulation patterns, sea surface temperature, and sea level rise with unprecedented accuracy and spatial coverage. This information is vital for understanding the impacts of climate change on the ocean and for developing adaptive strategies to mitigate these impacts on coastal communities and marine ecosystems.
Remote sensing data also helps in understanding oceanographic processes such as upwelling, which brings nutrient-rich waters to the surface, supporting the growth of phytoplankton and the rest of the marine food web. By monitoring these processes, we can better manage fisheries and offshore aquaculture operations, ensuring the long-term sustainability of these industries.
Mapping Marine Ecosystems & Natural Resource Management
Remote sensing oceanography has revolutionized our ability to map and monitor the health of marine ecosystems. Satellite imagery and airborne remote sensing platforms can provide detailed information on the distribution and abundance of various marine habitats, such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. These habitats are essential for supporting biodiversity, providing nursery grounds for commercially important fish species, and protecting coastlines from erosion and storm surges.
By integrating remote sensing data with in-situ observations and advanced modeling techniques, scientists can assess the impacts of human activities and climate change on these ecosystems. This information is crucial for the development of effective marine spatial planning and conservation strategies, which are essential components of the Blue Economy.
Case Study: Monitoring and Forecasting Harmful Algal Blooms
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a growing concern for the Blue Economy, as they can cause massive fish kills, contaminate seafood with toxins, and disrupt tourism in coastal areas. Remote sensing oceanography has proven to be an invaluable tool for monitoring and forecasting the occurrence of HABs. Satellite sensors, such as the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on board of NASA’s Aqua satellite and the Ocean and Land Colour Instrument (OLCI) on board of ESA’s Sentinel satellite, can detect the presence of HABs by measuring the concentration of chlorophyll-a in the water. By combining remote sensing data with oceanographic models and in-situ measurements, scientists can derive data on what type of phytoplankton is in the water and thus predict the development and distribution of HABs, allowing relevant stakeholders to take timely action to minimize HABs’ impacts on the Blue Economy.
Supporting Offshore Renewable Energy Development
The ocean offers vast potential for renewable energy production, such as offshore wind, wave, and tidal energy. Remote sensing technologies, including satellite-based synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and airborne lidar, can provide critical information on wind, wave, and current patterns, which is essential for selecting suitable sites for offshore renewable energy installations.
Furthermore, remote sensing data can be used to monitor the environmental impacts of these installations, such as changes in seabed morphology and potential effects on marine life. This information is crucial for ensuring the sustainable development of the offshore renewable energy sector, a key component of the Blue Economy.
Remote sensing oceanography has already made significant contributions to our understanding of the ocean and its resources. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more sophisticated remote sensing platforms and data analysis techniques to emerge, further unlocking the potential of the Blue Economy. By harnessing the power of remote sensing oceanography, we can ensure the sustainable management of our ocean resources, safeguarding their benefits for generations to come.
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References
Caprara, G., 1986. The Complete Encyclopedia of Space Satellites. Portland House.
