REMOTE-SENSING ESTIMATION OF BATHYMETRY AND CURRENT S IN A TIDAL INLET

0. Abstract A method is proposed and tested for the simultaneou s estimation of bathymetry and vector tidal currents based on optical remote sensing time series data of wave propagation and a rough estimate of the local tidal elevation from nearby t ide predictions. Bathymetry is found using the linear dispersion relationship but with the inclusi on of Doppler corrections due to the opposing or following components of tidal currents. The proble m introduces sampling challenges but can be aided through the addition of a priori assumptions about the nature of time-varying tidal signals including a magnitude difference from predictions a nd the unknown phase between currents and tidal elevation. Initial tests based on a three-we ek field experiment at a complicated tidal inlet domain at New River Inlet, NC, show that the method yields some good results but will require further study before becoming operational.