Monitoring ice movement using COSMO-SkyMed data ©ASI / Fugro NPA
Traditional ice monitoring solutions offer relatively low resolution, generalised data on ice fields, leads and pack ice movements over large regions. Best suited for navigation purposes, these data are not frequent or detailed enough to adequately serve localised survey operations. As a leading provider of satellite imagery and interpretation, Fugro have designed a new approach to ice monitoring for offshore oil and gas operations. Guided by regional ice assessments, meteorological and current forecasts and employing state-of-the-art satellite imaging, enabling expert interpretation 6 hours after data capture, this solution delivers daily high resolution monitoring of pack ice and icebergs for specific project areas and is suitable to support survey operations.
Satellite remote sensing is ideal for mapping remote, harsh and rapidly changing environments. Fugro NPA can both supply and analyse radar or optical satellite imagery with daily frequency or better, providing a powerful tool for monitoring such regions.
COSMO-SkyMed data combines benefits of all weather capability, revisits of less than 24 hours and high resolution, thus this satellite constellation provides a unique and optimum solution for time critical ice development monitoring in regions where cloud cover usually obscures the earth's surface from analysis with optical imagery.
Ice accumulation in 'lac deux montagnes' Quebec, Canada using Landsat
(left to right) January 2000 and January 2003
Temporal assessment of the build up and encroachment of ice in rivers or coastal areas can also be very important, particularly for management and accessibility assessment such as near specific industrial sites or navigation routes.
Wilkins Ice Shelf, Antarctica ©ASI