The Use of Satellite Data for Monitoring Oil Spills in Canada
Author: Thomas T. Alföldi
Publisher: Service
Published: 1982
Total Pages: 90
ISBN-13:
DOWNLOAD EBOOKThe use of satellite data for the surveillance and monitoring of oil spills is examined. The sensors aboard the Landstat and NOAA series (TIROS-N and GOES) satellites are described. In addition, a review of future satellite systems is presented. The various operational parameters including areal coverage, spatial resolution and spectral response are presented and used to analyze the applicability of the satellites to oil spill detection. Methods for the acquisition and use of these satellite data in a spill emergency are detailed. It is concluded that current satellite systems are not configured to provide operational oil spill monitoring. Orbits, sensor parameters and coincidence of timing with cloud conditions are such that the probability of successfully imaging an oil spill at Canadian latitudes is low. If the parameters are such that spill detection is feasible, it may be possible to generate near-real time information. It is recommended that tests, both over real and experimental spills, be conducted to provide information and experience on the use of satellite data for oil spill detection.