Bathymetric features of Subei Bank on ENVISAT ASAR images

In this study, we investigated the bathymetric features of Subei Bank in the Southern Yellow Sea on ENVISAT (Environmental Satellite) ASAR (advanced synthetic aperture radar) images. There are some fingerlike features in numerous ASAR images from 2005 to 2010. Examining the detailed local bathymetry chart, we found that these features are indeed the sea surface imprints of tidal channels and sand ridges. Analysis of quasi-synchronous sea surface wind and tide data demonstrates that the wind and ocean current play a significant role in the capability of SAR imaging of shallow water topography in the study area.