Satellites provide us with photographic record of processes that take place on the surface of the ocean - of currents and swarms of fish.

These provide us with a starting point for oceanographic research.

Infrared sensors on satellites allow the surface temperature of the oceans to be measured very precisely. This makes them very important for oceanography.

The distribution and movements of bodies of cold water and ice fields can be observed by infrared photography.

About 80 percent of all animal life exists in the world's oceans. Infrared technology makes it easier to find living things, particularly plankton.

With infrared, the difference between areas rich in plankton and therefore rich in nutritional substances, and those that are poorer can be discovered easily.

Finding these rich areas enables oceanographers to detect and trace swarms of fish.