SPIE - Education Ocean Sensing and Monitoring SC1077

This course covers basic principles and applications of optical oceanography. The course is aimed to provide background information for those interested in exploring processes involving the ocean using optical techniques, including sensing and monitoring via remotely (passive and active), as well as traditional in situ measurement and sampling approaches. A brief introduction of oceanography will be given, followed by ocean optics principles include scattering by both particles and optical turbulence, polarization and impacts on underwater imaging and communication, through theoretical frame work and examples. Typical sensors and platforms including unmanned underwater vehicles are introduced. Topics associated with data collection, processing, analysis, fusion and assimilation to ocean models are also discussed. This course can also be used as a refresher for recent advances in related areas. This course helps to understand apply to research and development efforts relevant to the maritime environment, in such issues as sea surface temperature sensing, underwater imaging, and remote sensing including water quality monitoring related to biological activities or extreme events, for example.