Airborne Remote Sensing of Coastal Features and Processes: An Overview

Abstract

Klemas, V., 2013. Airborne remote sensing of coastal features and processes: an overview. Coastal ecosystems tend to be spatially complex and exhibit high temporal variability. Observing them requires the ability to monitor their biophysical features and controlling processes at high spatial and temporal resolutions, which can be provided by airborne remote sensors. High-resolution satellite data are now also available, yet the finer resolution and frequent, flexible overflights offered by airborne sensors can be more effective in a range of coastal research and management applications, such as wetlands mapping, coastal bathymetry, and tracking coastal plumes, salinity gradients, tidal fronts, and oil slicks. The airborne imagery is also useful for the interpretation of satellite data. This article reviews estuarine and coastal remote sensing applications that require the high spatial and temporal resolutions provided by airborne sensors.