The method of studying the ocean shown in the illustration is remote sensing.
Remote sensing is the process of collecting information about an object or phenomenon without making physical contact with it. In the context of oceanography, remote sensing is used to collect data about the ocean's surface, water column, and seafloor.
The illustration shows a satellite taking a picture of the ocean. Satellites are one of the most common tools used for remote sensing of the ocean. They can be used to collect data on a variety of oceanographic parameters, including:
Sea surface temperature
Ocean color
Sea surface height
Sea ice concentration
Wave height
Wind speed and direction
Remote sensing data is used by oceanographers for a variety of purposes, including:
Monitoring ocean currents and circulation
Tracking the movement of sea ice
Predicting the formation and development of hurricanes and other storms
Studying the effects of climate change on the ocean
Remote sensing is a powerful tool that allows oceanographers to study the ocean on a global scale and to collect data that would be difficult or impossible to obtain using other methods.