The present work deals with the combined analysis of satellite images acquired in thermal infrared (sensor AVHRR) and visible (sensor CZCS) with historical observations and coincident in situ measurements. The large variability of the Rhône plume in the Gulf of Lions is evidenced as a function of the wind and water flow. Deep water formation in winter is described. Analysis of images of sea surface temperature and relative concentration in chlorophyll provides a description of the seasonal variation of the production areas. The monthly means of the global irradiance at sea surface is depicted using images acquired by the Meteosat satellite in visible band.
