Satellite evidence of physical features and processes in the Bering Sea

Abstract

Satellite infrared imagery is used to study temporal and spatial relationships of physical features and processes in the Bering Sea. A two-year collection of enhanced infrared imagery reveals that the maximum extent of the ice corresponds with the location of the Bering Slope current. Sea surface temperature patterns visually correlate with the 50-m and 70-m bathymetric contours. Processes which establish fronts in these regions are possible explanations for this correlation. Warm surface water extending from the Gulf of Alaska, through the Aleutian passes into the Bering Sea, is found simultaneously with warm surface water and eddies along the shelf break. Spatial and temporal relationships of these patterns imply surface circulation in the Bering Sea basin with inflow of Gulf of Alaska water through the Aleutian passes, cyclonic flow in the basin, and flow along the shelf by the Bering Slope current. Several generating mechanisms for the eddies are proposed.