Accurate measurements of surface currents are crucial for coastal monitoring, rip current detection, and predicting the path of pollutants. Several methods exist to measure surface currents, some of which are costly and time-consuming.

In a recent paper, researchers from Texas A&M University compared three methods for measuring surface currents over large areas, identifying an ideal method that uses drones and wave-based current mapping. The technique relies on short aerial videos and mathematical analysis of wave patterns to determine a current’s speed and path.

Image: Karl Greif, Unsplash