Natural light from the ocean is modulated by waves, and one can infer ocean properties from optical images of the sea surface. By dwelling on a particular patch of the ocean, the full 3-D surface wave spectra (2 spatial dimensions + time) may be computed. Using well-known properties of wave propagation (i.e. the dispersion relation), one can accurately estimate both bathymetry and current from the wave spectra. This presentation will describe the theoretical basis of the remote sensing technique, describe the measurement system, and present results from recent field tests.

Bio: John McLean is president and CEO of Arete Associates, a small (~200 person) company that specializes in ocean remote sensing. Dr. McLean’s research interests include wave propagation and stability, optical remote sensing, and high resolution imaging systems. Dr. McLean graduated from the University of Arizona (BS Engineering Math) in 1975, and received a PhD in Applied Math from Caltech in 1980.