Remote Sensing

Remote Sensing Overview
Remote sensing allows to obtain measurements of different properties of seawater from sensors attached to satellites orbiting the Earth. It is possible to estimate sea surface temperature (SST) by measuring the electromagnetic radiation emmited by the ocean in the infrared and microwave wavelengths. Such measurements have been collected since the 1980's and it is now possible to study climate change from this 40-year database by calculating anomalies and determining the occurrence and intensity of marine heat waves. On the other hand, electromagnetic radiation in the visible light wavelength can be used to study the presence and concentration of pigments in the surface ocean, such as those that microalgae use for photosynthesis. These wavelengths are thus used to determine chlorophyll-a concentration and estimate phytoplankton growth and primary production. Have a look at the different remote sensing products available below for Irish waters.

Sea Surface Temperature

Sea Surface Temperature Anomaly

Marine Heat Waves

Surface Temperature Historical

Chlorophyll-a Concentration
