Incidence of SAR images on the study of NE-Brazilian coast and shelf waters

A coupling of field and satellite remote sensing data were used to improve the knowledge with respect to coastal dynamics and erosion process as well as on the importance of mangroves as a mechanism of fertilization of tropical NE-Brazilian waters. RADARSAT and ERS SAR images were used to position morphologic features, to trace coastline evolution and detect changes in mangrove coverage. Analysis of aerial photography, ERS and RADARSAT images, reveal that mangrove areas have been drastically reduced in the last decades, to give places to new urban settling. Coastal erosion appears to have been intensified after the installation of harbor facilities and by the construction of beach houses and other structures along the shore, that modify coastal circulation and nearshore sediment transport. Particular importance is given to the analysis of the RADARSAT SAR image taken in September 1997.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.