An Introduction to the use of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) to Detect Marine oil Spills

Abstract

This paper discusses the use of remote sensing devices like satellite mounted space borne radar (SAR) to detect oil pollution in the oceans and waterways. The principle of the radar, how imaging is done in the real and synthetic aperture radars, and its superiority as a remote sensor is described. In this paper the oil spills detection, the factors that affect the detection are explained, along with photographs of radar images. The methods currently used to discriminate between actual oil slicks and look-alikes caused by natural phenomenon are briefly mentioned. The importance of utilizing the SAR images with updated technology is stressed to prevent pollution and enable oil spill response personnel to act swiftly and efficiently to protect the world's oceans and coastlines if a spill occurred.