A comparison between infrared satellite images and sea truth measurements

Abstract

International audienceA method for processing NOAA-VHRR and TIROS N-VHRR data is outlined. Noise elimination is performed and sea surface temperature maps are produced with a maximum temperature resolution of 0.5 C. A comparison is shown between in situ temperature measurements and VHRR radiometric temperatures along a track intersecting the cyclonic gyre of the Liguro-Provencal basin. The ecologic significance of the observed thermal fronts is demonstrated by stations showing the vertical variations of oceanographic parameters. The satellite image allows apprehension of the two dimensional geometry of these fronts. This information can be used in the evaluation of the primary production of the basin. It is also emphasized that the systematic processing of I.R. images brings a significant contribution to the planning of future oceanographic cruises