SEASAFE: an operational tool for sea surface monitoring with SAR

Abstract

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is considered as a useful tool for sea surface monitoring, thanks to its capability to acquire images day and night and in all weather conditions. In particular, SAR is extensively used to detect oil slicks on the sea surface. Since the early 90s SAR acquisitions were routinely available with C-band sensors (such as ERS-1 and 2, Envisat, Radarsat 1 and 2). More recently, also L-band (ALOS PALSAR 1 and 2) and X-band (Terrasar X, COSMO/SkyMed constellation) sensors became operational. In this framework we developed a new software called SEASAFE (Slick Emissions And Ship Automatic Features Extraction), able to process SAR data in C-L-and X-bands. Moving from previous experience, new features have been added such as an enhanced land masking algorithm and oil spill characterization. Modules for ship detection and wind and wave evaluation are also available. The new improved system is here described; detection capabilities are evaluated, overall performances are described.