Applications of Satellite Synthetic Aperture Radar
to Coastal Ocean Dynamic Studies

Quanan Zheng

University of Maryland

Abstract:

It is believed that satellite Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is the most powerful sensor for ocean remote sensing because of its all weather, all day abilities, and high spatial resolution. Unlike visible band images, however, most ocean processes on SAR images are not directly perceivable. Therefore, it is necessary to develop physical models and methods used for extraction of oceanographic information from SAR images. In my talk, I will present the results obtained from two case studies. One case is determination of ocean internal wave characteristic half width using SAR image. The other is determination of jet-like features of estuary plumes off the Delaware Bay.