Satellite data in general are well suited for coarse-level mapping of the
geomorphology and benthic composition of the coral reefs. However, today, they
are lacking either the spatial and/or the spectral resolution (Joyce [4]) which are
required to create detailed bottom-type maps and to detect and monitor the health
status and vitality of coral reefs. Hyperspectral airborne sensors on the other
hand offer both a high spatial and spectral resolution and therefore have a high
potential for mapping coral reef ecosystems and for identifying the coral areas
which are most threatened. Kutser [3] recognises three main advantages of
hyperspectral sensors: they possess a large number of narrowband channels
capable of discriminating bottom-types in more detail (Mumby [5]), their large
number of bands increase the capability to unmix spectral signatures (Hedley
[6]), and they can also distinguish bottom-types in deeper waters. The major
drawbacks to use the technique as a routine methodology are the limited areal
coverage and the relatively high costs involved. Airborne hyperspectral remote
sensing is however a powerful tool for application and algorithm development
given the versatility it offers. In the near future such (automated) algorithms can
be implemented on Unmanned Airborne Vehicles (UAV’s), micro-satellite and
satellite platforms. These systems, equipped with sensors with programmable
narrow spectral bands, will have the ability to revisit the sites at regular time
intervals at high spatial resolution.