Spatial remote sensing

The number of satellites put into orbit is growing steadily. Their most well known areas of application involve communications and meteorology. As they provide a very large-scale view of the earth's surface, they are also very useful for ocean observation. The term 'spatial remote sensing' is used to describe the measurements taken from satellites (the term 'airborne remote sensing' is used when such measurements are taken from aircraft).

The measurements taken by remote sensing are used- for the purpose of calibration and validation - in conjunction with those taken by oceanographic vessels such as the Belgica, which provide the 'truth about the sea'. The aim is to develop reliable techniques that can be used to monitor certain indicators of water quality and to draw up charts that are useful for managing the quality of the marine environment.

Although these aims are clearly defined, it is nonetheless important to point out that this is a research project that is under development. MUMM is taking part in this project in the context of programmes run by the OSTC, the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA.

 Scientific context and objectives

 Data and methods

 Examples of derived products