Surveying and Monitoring Surface Water Bodies from Satellite Platforms: An overview of the Ongoing Efforts Assessing the Potentials and Limitations
Abstract
The application of satellite based observations of land-surface waters can be grouped into two broad categories, a) those that can be used to develop information on the static characteristics of water bodies (e.g. spatial extent, volume at average state, stage height vs. water surface area or volume ratings, planform geometry, water-surface slope, etc.) and b) those that can operationally monitor dynamic changes (water level and extent). Most of the ongoing efforts are focused on the second group and the opportunities in applying remote sensing as "surveying" missions is often overlooked. Here, we take a specific look at several ongoing projects that currently utilize satellite radar altimetry and high resolution imagery as a tool for either a) observing the general status of lakes and rivers for agriculture purposes and hazard monitoring, or b) as a first order means to infer river discharge. Limitations are highlighted and the need for multi-instrument or refined technology such as wide-swath altimetry is discussed.
- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2006
- Bibcode:
- 2006AGUFM.H23A1466B
- Keywords:
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- 1855 Remote sensing (1640);
- 1857 Reservoirs (surface);
- 1860 Streamflow;
- 1895 Instruments and techniques: monitoring