Airphoto Analysis of Ocean Outfall Dispersion

Book excerpt: The objective of the research was to develop a remote sensing tool for the evaluation of dispersion of wastes from existing or proposed ocean outfalls. Photogrammetric and photo interpretation methods were used to determine dispersion patterns, diffusion coefficients, waste concentrations and nearshore currents. The study is unique in that the aerial photography is not only used to determine the position of points and the size of objects as in normal photogrammetry, but the photograph is also used as an energy sensor. Procedures were developed using dye drops from an airplane. The water current velocity was found to be the dominant factor in the resulting plume pattern. Characteristic airphoto pattern elements are given for visual interpretation of the photography.