New Technologies for Radiometry: Impact on Ocean Color Research

Published

August 1, 2003

Author(s)

Bettye C. Johnson, Steven W. Brown, N Souaidia, M Feinholz, M Yarbrough, S Flora, D K. Clark

Abstract

Ocean color satellites provide global determinations of chlorophyll a by measurements of the spectral radiance of the oceans. This is a difficult measurement because the at-satellite radiance is dominated by the atmospheric contribution, and pre-flight calibration uncertainties are inadequate. As a result, the calibration of ocean color satellites is performed during the mission using in situ measurements of water-leaving radiance. The Marine Optical Buoy (MOBY) is the primary ocean measurement system for the calibration of satellite ocean color sensors. It is essential for MOBY to provide the most accurate values possible, and a multi-component calibration methodology is used to achieve this goal. Here we report on particular aspects of our work that have led, or will lead, to reduced uncertainties for ocean color research. Tunable lasers, transfer standards, and solid state sources are critical components to this effect.

Proceedings Title

International Symposium on Remote Sensing of the Environment | 30th | Information for Risk Management and Sustainable Development | East-West Center

Conference Dates

November 10-14, 2003

Conference Title

International Symposium on Remote Sensing of Environment

Pub Type

Conferences

Keywords

calibration, instrument characterization, ocean color, radiometry

Citation

Johnson, B. , Brown, S. , Souaidia, N. , Feinholz, M. , Yarbrough, M. , Flora, S. and Clark, D. (2003), New Technologies for Radiometry: Impact on Ocean Color Research, International Symposium on Remote Sensing of the Environment | 30th | Information for Risk Management and Sustainable Development | East-West Center (Accessed October 21, 2025)