Space enabled Intertidal Mapping for Safe and Efficient Port Operations (SBRI)

The NOC is leading a UK Space Agency funded Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) to evaluate the potential operational benefits of a new approach to monitoring coastal change using a combination of satellite and terrestrial data. The project, delivered in partnership with Channel Coastal Observatory and Southampton University is working with PEEL Ports to progress the development of this novel observing method based on case study applications in the Mersey and Medway estuaries.

Satellite earth observation provides a unique source of accessible data that can be used to map features of the marine and terrestrial environment, including intertidal topography, which can be both highly dynamic and challenging to monitor using conventional approaches. Over 6 months the team will assess the operational value of the approach, and further develop the underlying method to reduce uncertainties associated with tidally driven spatial variability in water levels.

The project builds on previous funding from the European Space Agency Atlantic Region Initiative and Science for Society programmes.

Partners: Channel Coastal Observatory, PEEL Ports, Southampton University.