Remote sensing and analysis of oceanographic parameters from ERTS-1

Remotely sensed data collected from the Earth Resources Technology Satellite (ERTS-1) are capable of providing synoptic, large area, repetitive coverage of oceanographic parameters at high resolution. Photointerpretation techniques and digital analysis of ERTS-1 multispectral imagery has permitted: (1) accurate depth detection (± 0.25 meters) for depths to 9 meters; (2) updating of navigational charts depicting previously unreported shoals and accurate positioning of previously reported shoals at costs of only $.58 per square kilometer; (3) correlation of schools of menhaden within certain turbidity areas; (4) discovery of new upwelling areas; (5) detection and monitoring of sea ice, determination of its relative age, and iceberg tracking; (6) monitoring and detection of oil spills, acid and sludge dump sites; (7) current mapping; (8) wetlands delineation; and (9) coastal erosion and sedimentation at significant savings of time and cost.