The new Sub-Surface Temperature information feature is offered at two depths, 50 meters and 150 meters, and is available worldwide. This new information will further assist long liners and purse seiners to identify the best regions for locating tuna when used in conjunction with other surface information already provided with ORBIMAGE's SeaStarSM Service such as plankton concentrations (derived from ORBIMAGE's OrbView-2 "SeaWiFS" satellite), surface currents, sea surface temperatures, sea surface height and weather information. These information layers are sent as data files by email to each fishing vessel where they are viewed and analyzed in the form of maps using ORBIMAGE's OrbMapâ„¢ software.
Sub-Surface Temperature information is determined by modeling the sub-surface thermal changes that would cause the satellite-observed changes in Sea Surface Temperature and Sea Surface Height. The predicted temperature distributions are calibrated with in-situ observations and historical records, as well as iterative techniques that help increase their accuracy.
"Our satellite-derived oceanographic information has already greatly enhanced the fisherman's ability to interpret surface patterns to find fish," says Greg Hammann, Director of Product Development, "but the Sub-Surface Temperature information helps to interpret ocean patterns beneath the surface that will improve catches even further by showing vertical patterns that affect fish distribution."
"Our subscribers to the SeaStar Service are very excited to receive this leading edge information product," adds Chris Wilson, Director of Sales and Marketing. "The feedback we receive from the boat captains is that they believe it is an important, and even critical, component to their fishing operations."
Sub-Surface Temperature Map at 150m