| The objective of this study, carried out in the Gironde estuary inlet, was to determine the nature of the seaward dispersion of estuarine water and suspended sediments during a spring tide and high river flow. On June 3, 19(7, three flights were made over the inlet, at mid ebb, low tide and mid flood. The planned flight at high tide was cancelled due to adverse meteorological conditions. During each flight, thermal infrared coverage was obtained, together with black and white photographs. These data were correlated with concomitant ground mesures of current velocity, salinity, temperature and suspended sediment concentration Four types of water masses were identified during the tidal cycle: estuarine "very warm and turbid" water; estuarine "cooler and... |
