Trajectory Analysis Handbook

"Where will the oil go?" and "When will it get there?" are important questions asked during an oil spill response. This 2002 guide describes the basic concepts involved in analyzing the trajectory of spilled oil.

The chapters and documents below are PDF (Portable Document Format) files. To view, download, or print them, you'll need the Adobe Reader (see link below). If you have a fast Internet connection, you may want to download the entire handbook, which is available in English and Spanish. You can also order a printed copy of the handbook (English or Spanish) by contacting our Photos and Orders Specialist by email (link below) or by phone (206.526.6400).

For more information

Adobe Reader Download the latest version of Adobe Reader from the Adobe Systems website. [leaves OR&R site]

Photos and Orders Specialist Order a printed copy of the handbook (English or Spanish).

Chapter Index and Related Publications

Trajectory Analysis Handbook The entire 42-page handbook. (Document format: PDF, size: 2.7 M)

Manual de Analisis de Trayectorias The entire 42-page handbook, in Spanish. (Document format: PDF, size: 4.1 M)

Cover Page and Introduction (Document format: PDF, size: 1.1 M)

Fate How spilled oil weathers, and how long it takes. (Document format: PDF, size: 797.4 K)

Oil Transport Transport processes, including spreading, slick thickness, the effect of wind, the effects of tides, turbulent mixing, Langmuir circulation, longshore currents, beaching and refloating, and land and sea breezes. (Document format: PDF, size: 1.1 M)

Summary, Glossary, Conversion Charts and Back Cover Components of the trajectory "picture." (Document format: PDF, size: 297.7 K)

Questions and Answers: Spill Trajectory Analysis A technical explanation of spill trajectory analysis and how it differs from oil spill trajectory modeling. (Document format: PDF, size: 266.5 K)

Digital Distribution Standard for NOAA Trajectory Analysis Information A 1996 technical description of a method for preparing a set of "minimum regret" trajectory model runs for use in trajectory analysis, and a standard digital file format for presenting the results. (Document format: PDF, size: 230.9 K)