Satellite technology improves coastal data collection in South Australia

Flinders University researchers are using satellite technology to collect important data about the seafloor along South Australia's coastline. Their studies are focused on understanding environmental changes in coastal areas, particularly the elevation of the seascape, known as bathymetry. Traditionally, methods like sonar and echo sounding have been used for this purpose, but they can be expensive and time-consuming. Professor Patrick Hesp, an environmental science expert at the university, notes that satellite-derived bathymetry (SDB) is a more efficient and affordable alternative for tracking sand movement near the shore. The new research has improved the accuracy of satellite bathymetric data by determining the best combinations of satellite imagery and techniques. This approach is valuable for monitoring seagrass and studying coastal impacts, especially in hard-to-reach locations. Joram Downes, a recent graduate involved in the project, emphasized that using satellite bathymetry enhances the monitoring of seabed changes. It can help map and manage the dynamic sea floor more effectively. The study tested over 100 different methods using extensive ground observations to optimize data collection, especially using low-cost satellite technology. Associate Professor David Bruce explained that this satellite method complements existing techniques, filling in gaps where seafloor elevation data is missing. Flinders University has also utilized drone-based LiDAR technology, which integrates well with satellite data and provides precise measurements in shallow waters. Associate Professor Graziela Miot da Silva is encouraged by the results of the research, noting the seamless integration of different technologies. This study offers new insights into how various factors like input bands and their resolution affect the quality of satellite-derived bathymetric data.