Microwave Radiometric Detection of Oil Slicks.
Abstract
Two years of research have been conducted to determine the feasibility of using microwave radiometry for the detection, identification, and surveillance of oil pollution. Theoretical studies consisted of a review of contemporary theory concerning parameters that influence microwave emission from both unpolluted and oil-covered seas. Laboratory investigations confirm results obtained from earlier studies and established the response characteristics of the 3.2-mm sensor to continuous oil films. Airborne measurements of controlled spills off the Southern California Coast were performed with dual-polarized 3.2- and 8.1-mm sensors oriented with a forward antenna viewing angle 45 deg above nadir. Four sets of oil spills, or missions, were performed to obtain data over a variety of sea-surface conditions. Pollutants used for the tests included No. 2 diesel fuel, 26.1 and 21.6 API gravity crude oils, and 9.7 API gravity fuel oil. Significant microwave brightness temperature oil slick signatures were noted for a wide range of ocean conditions (sea states 1-4) and oil film thickness (thickness <1 micron and greater). Based on the experimental results a passive microwave imaging system configuration has been recommended for oil pollution surveillance. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0728551
Entities
People
- A. T. Edgerton
- D. C. Meeks
- David P. Williams
- R. M. Wilcox
Organizations
- Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings