Spectroscopy from space lets satellites spy out ocean plastic patches
The technique could show where and how floating plastic patches form, and raise awareness of plastic pollution in the oceans
Satellite images can now be used to detect small patches of plastic litter floating in coastal water, thanks to the unique way they reflect light.1
The ‘spectral signature’ of the floating plastics distinguishes them from natural materials, like seaweed and timber – and the method is sensitive enough to spot plastics floating among natural materials in patches smaller than 10m across.