Project: Quantifying short-term morphologic evolution and alongshore sediment transport rates at Cape Henlopen, Del., using remote sensing and rapid response GPS-equipped vehicles (R/ETE-14)

Principal Investigators: Jack Puleo and Michael O’Neal, University of Delaware

This study is using GPS and imaging systems to learn more about the accumulation of sand around Cape Henlopen Point. Researchers Jack Puleo and Michael O’Neal are using a sophisticated GPS system to map the shape of the beach and the amount of sand present, and a camera system will take near real-time images of the shoreline.

The scientists will compare the GPS information with measurements collected by their new navigable unmanned airship. The 60-foot airship offers the opportunity to gather high-resolution images over a large land area.

Information about how sediment is transported will help state program managers assess how moving shorelines affect beaches, developed areas, and wildlife.

See below for the full project abstract.