Satellite-derived bathymetry in island coastal zones: Technology

Shallow bathymetry data constitute the core foundational information underpinning the ecological, resource, and strategic values of island and coastal zones. Satellite-derived bathymetry has evolved into a key technical means for large-scale acquisition of shallow bathymetry information. Focusing on satellite-based lidar bathymetry, optical imaging bathymetry, and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) bathymetry, this study systematically summarizes the core principles, applicable scenarios, technical strengths, and inherent limitations of each technology. It is shown that satellite-derived bathymetry has undergone an evolutionary shift from theoretical construction to practical application, and from single-method, single-data-source approaches to multi-technology, multi-source data fusion frameworks. In the future, to meet the growing demand for continuous, highly reliable, and refined shallow water bathymetry products in the management of island and coastal zone resources and ecological environment protection, it is imperative to further integrate multi-source satellite-based technologies and develop specialized bathymetric products and service platforms tailored to representative island and coastal applications.