Progress in satellite remote sensing for studying physical processes at the ocean surface and its borders with the atmosphere and sea ice

Abstract

Physical oceanography is the study of physical conditions, processes and variables within the ocean, including temperature–salinity distributions, mixing of the water column, waves, tides, currents and air–sea interaction processes. Here we provide a critical review of how satellite sensors are being used to study physical oceanography processes at the ocean surface and its borders with the atmosphere and sea ice. The paper begins by describing the main sensor types that are used to observe the oceans (visible, thermal infrared and microwave) and the specific observations that each of these sensor types can provide. We then present a critical review of how these sensors and observations are being used to study: (i) ocean surface currents, (ii) storm surges, (iii) sea ice, (iv) atmosphere–ocean gas exchange and (v) surface heat fluxes via phytoplankton. Exciting advances include the use of multiple sensors in synergy to observe temporally varying Arctic sea ice volume, atmosphere–ocean gas fluxes, and the potential for four-dimensional water circulation observations. For each of these applications we explain their relevance to society, review recent advances and capability, and provide a forward look at future prospects and opportunities. We then more generally discuss future opportunities for oceanography-focused remote sensing, which includes the unique European Union Copernicus programme, the potential of the International Space Station and commercial miniature satellites. The increasing availability of global satellite remote-sensing observations means that we are now entering an exciting period for oceanography. The easy access to these high quality data and the continued development of novel platforms is likely to drive further advances in remote sensing of the ocean and atmospheric systems.

The physical oceanography of the transport of floating marine debris

“…Rascle et al 2014), eddies, gyres and plumes, sometimes through tracking surfactants (Munk et al 2000), making it possible to identify potential zones of accumulation in the open ocean. An overview of satellite remote sensing for studying physical processes at the ocean surface is given by Shutler et al (2016).…”

From Open Data to Open Analyses—New Opportunities for Environmental Applications?

“…Shutler et al [55] provide a recent review of the use of satellite sensors for the study of physical oceanography processes. In addition, there is progress on the monitoring of water quality aspects using satellite sensors.…”

The Contribution of Physical Geographers to Sustainability Research

“…A study of wetlands in arid environments, for example, identified an understanding of the factors that produce wetlands, geomorphic, and sedimentary processes as critical for sustainable management [99], and an assessment of the contribution of glacial meltwater runoff to total watershed discharge was undertaken in the context of climate change risk assessment and sustainable water management in glacierized watersheds [100]. Remote sensing of the ocean has been rationalized as critical for understanding and predicting climate change, energy exploration, and sustainable food harvesting and production [101]; and the importance of spatial variability of precipitation in the lower Mississippi, for example, can be rationalized on the basis of agriculture in the region [102]. In general, much of the work on the natural world appears to be rationalized in terms of human utility of the environment rather than baseline monitoring.…”