Satellite Imagery for Oil Spill Detection & Analysis

Enhancing spill response with real-time satellite surveillance

In collaboration with MacDonald, Dettwiler, and Associates Ltd (MDA Space), we provide access to advanced satellite imagery, including synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and optical data. This service supports real-time monitoring, historic data retrieval, and GIS-ready analysis to help our members gain a comprehensive understanding of any spill event.

With the ability to capture images in all weather conditions, day or night, using SAR satellite remote sensing offers an unparalleled strategic advantage in identifying oil on water, tracking vessel movements, and analysing environmental conditions. Our dedicated technical team ensures that every image is processed, analysed, and delivered in formats compatible with industry-standard GIS platforms, such as ArcGIS and Google Earth.

This service is available to our members as part of our commitment to enhancing spill response capabilities through cutting-edge technology.

Technical Information Sheet

Satellite Remote Sensing Service

Wide-area coverage

Satellite-based RADAR provides extensive geographical coverage—from 90,000 km² as standard to 250,000 km² when required—supporting rapid identification of spills and vessel activity.

All-weather, day-and-night imaging

Unlike optical satellite sensors, RADAR satellites operate regardless of cloud cover, darkness, or challenging weather conditions—providing consistent, weather-independent surveillance.

GIS-ready analysis

Every satellite acquisition includes expert analysis, offering detailed, actionable intelligence in GIS-friendly formats to integrate seamlessly with your response planning.

Satellite imagery: a valuable tool for oil spill surveillance and monitoring

Surveillance is essential for situational awareness during an oil spill response. It combines traditional methods with modern technologies like uncrewed aerial vehicles and satellite remote sensing. Satellites are particularly valuable tools, providing wide-area, strategic data to support informed decision-making.

: Yes, historical satellite imagery is available, subject to archive availability. Our team can request and analyse past images to support post-incident reviews or preparedness planning.
: Yes, we offer scheduled monitoring at your preferred frequency—providing timely imagery to support ongoing situational awareness and preparedness.
: No, these satellites follow fixed polar, sun-synchronous orbits. However, multiple satellites frequently revisit key locations worldwide.
: Yes, all data is delivered in GIS-ready formats, including ArcGIS shapefiles, Google Earth KML/KMZ files, and GeoTIFF imagery.
: Yes, our Technology Evolution Team is available to help integrate satellite intelligence into your Common Operating Picture (COP) and assist with data interpretation.

Why Choose OSRL?

With decades of oil spill response expertise, OSRL has a suite of surveillance tools to support members in making rapid, informed decisions.

Our partnership with MDA allows us to offer immediate access to both historic and newly acquired satellite imagery, enabling pre-emptive spill detection and response coordination. By integrating satellite technology into your response strategy, you gain access to a service that is widely accepted by regulators and industry stakeholders, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency. With 24/7 support from our technical experts, OSRL delivers industry-leading satellite surveillance solutions tailored to the needs of our members.

Who We Are

View our surveillance, modelling and visualisation articles

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Article

Satellite Imagery: A Valuable Tool For Oil Spill Surveillance and Monitoring

In this article, Global Aviation Manager, Shane Jacobs, explores satellite imagery as a valuable tool for surveillance and monitoring of oil spills.

08 Aug, 2023
3 min read
SMV

Recorded Seminar

TPR Seminar Series - Part Two: Surveillance, Modelling and Visualisation

This second session sees Simon McCosh and Simon Blean, explain the importance of situational awareness in a response.

09 Mar, 2022
46 min watch
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Recorded Seminar

ATSEA-2 Webinar Series - Part 2: SMV & Response Strategies

This second webinar with ATSEA-2 focuses on surveillance, modelling and visualisation and the different response strategies available.

28 Feb, 2022
120 min watch
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Accessing these services is quick and straightforward.

As an OSRL member, we can guide you through the use of these services alongside your ongoing incident.

As part of your core membership coverage, you can use these services by calling the Duty Manager or contacting us for more information.

Simply fill in the form, and we'll get in contact with you.

If you would prefer to call us, please pick up the phone to speak with our Duty Manager. Please always call for instant technical advice on using your core membership coverage services.

We look forward to talking with you!

+44 (0)23 8033 1551

Regional numbers:

Asia Pacific

+65 6266 1566

Americas

+1 954 983 9880

Satellite Remote Sensing