Coastal observing systems: The role of synthetic aperture radar

The availability of cloud- and light-independent synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data has for nearly a decade provided regular and global observation of ocean wave spectra. Furthermore, the radar's capability to detect and locate oil spills, bathymetric features in shallow water, and ships has also led to systematic use of SAR images in operational surveillance associated with marine coastal pollution control, bottom mapping, and fisheries. Recently, a new application has been developed for monitoring atmospheric boundary-layer processes and mesoscale coastal wind fields. With the capability to further advance the regular application of SAR data for upper ocean current and feature monitoring, it is evident that SAR will play a vital role in coastal ocean observing systems.