This COSMO-SkyMed satellite image, acquired on 19 August 2011, captures an oil spill in the North Sea off the coast of Scotland.

On 10 August, oil was found on the sea surface, and investigation revealed it to be a leak from a pipe connected to the Gannet Alpha oil platform, off the coast of Aberdeen. Over the next few days the issue was identified and the leak stopped on 19 August.

In this radar image we can see the oil that had reached the surface before the leak was resolved, which appears as dark patches in the scene, contrasting with the surrounding water. Satellite imagery is a valuable tool for detecting oil spills, enabling rapid response efforts and helping to contain the spread of pollution.