Satellite-derived bathymetry
Satellite-derived bathymetry uses light reflected from the seabed through clear water to calculate depth. Different wavelengths of sunlight (especially blue and green) penetrate water to varying degrees, and satellites analyze this reflected light to estimate how deep the water is.
Sources
NASA. “Satellite-Derived Bathymetry (SDB) Workshop.” NASA ICESat‑2 Applications Team Hosts Satellite Bathymetry Workshop. NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. March 17, 2025.