The statistics that could be estimated from satellite data meet most of the above requirements when they are supplemented with wind hindcast data. From this analysis, it results that use of standard hindcast data and satellite observations, validated with site measurements when available, allow for development of adequate climatological statistics for HSC performance analyses. There are however some limitations that could be cleared with refined hindcast models, with more satellite observations and with more site measurements. The analysis showed some limitations in the resolution of hindcast in this area of the Mediterranean Sea, where local conditions can influence weather and sea states, with sometimes rapid changes from mild to severe weather conditions. Fine resolution affordable hindcast models would be needed, in relation with rapid and local changes of weather conditions in the Mediterranean Sea, to supplement satellite data.
Satellite coverage is too scarce, and has measurements limited to narrow tracks in general.
Sensors that could provide spectral directional information are also not operating sufficiently often in the Mediterranean. User persuasion HSC operators are motivated, and would be easily convinced if climate information were complete, detailed, and available at affordable costs. Expected improvements It would be necessary to improve by an order of magnitude the time and space coverage of altimetric sensors, which could be done if a large number of satellites were launched. Directional spectral information is further needed to validate and supplement hindcast.