Deriving Bathymetric Maps of the Shallow Coastal Water of the Gaza Strip Coastal Zone Using Passive Remotely Sensed Imagery

Bathymetry, the mapping of the shape of the surface of the seafloor, is a necessary science for coastal populations that rely heavily on the marine ecosystem for their survival and prosperity. Bathymetric maps are typically derived through a sound or light remote sensing system that is mounted on a boat or airplane that sweeps the designated study area. However, in regions with political constraints or logistical difficulties, reaching the study area and conducting in situ measurements can be difficult or impossible. Thus, using passive satellite imaging can be an alternative approach to traditional hydrographic surveying methods. As bathymetric maps are influenced by the local sea water conditions, the bottom type, and the water constituents, choosing a derivation algorithm for the satellite images which results in a robust and accurate map is very important. In this study, QuickBird imagery was selected to investigate the functionality and the accuracy of two different bathymetric derivation algorithms to obtain robust and reliable maps of the Gaza Strip coastal zone. Despite the high pollution level in the seawater of the investigated area, the findings confirmed the feasibility of obtaining reasonable accurate bathymetric maps.