Sensing Oceans from Space

Satellite Instruments

Once the sole domain of science, the 'weather' of the ocean as interpreted by satellite instruments has become widely accessible for commercial, industrial and community use.

For scientists, satellite instruments now provide information on global, regional, and local sea surface temperatures, on surface currents, and wind speed and direction day or night.

For fishermen chasing oceanic frontal systems where the fish are feeding; yachtsmen and women looking for the quickest ride on an ocean current, or climatologists assessing Indian Ocean conditions which lead to cloud formation and rain, highly-advanced instruments on board space platforms are delivering vast amounts of information.

Yet, for scientists trying to monitor and observe the marine environment, the use of specialised satellite instruments continues to significantly advance the way Australians access, understand and manage their marine environment and its influences on weather and climate.