2022 data from NASA's Aqua MODIS satellite provides global, binned inherent optical properties of seawater. The dataset includes per-pixel coefficients for total absorption and backscattering, as well as phytoplankton and particulate components. It is processed by OB_CLOUD using the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties (GIOP) model framework on spectral remote sensing reflectance.
Use Cases
- Classify water types by analyzing spatial patterns in the total absorption coefficient (a) and particulate backscattering coefficient (bbp_443).
- Assess phytoplankton biomass distribution and variability using the phytoplankton absorption coefficient at 443 nm (aph_443).
- Study colored dissolved organic matter dynamics by examining the combined CDOM and detritus absorption coefficient (adg_443) and its spectral slope (adg_s).
- Quantify uncertainty in optical property retrievals for model validation using fields like aph_unc_443 and bbp_unc_443.
- Perform cross-sensor comparison studies using inherent optical properties (IOPs) like a and bb, which are more stable for comparison than apparent optical properties.
Strengths
- Derived from NASA's Aqua MODIS satellite, a long-term observational platform.
- Provides multiple specific geophysical variables per pixel, including coefficients and their uncertainties.
- Data is processed using a standardized model framework (GIOP) for consistency.
- Designed for global spatial coverage over ocean waters.
Limitations
- Exact temporal coverage within 2022 and update frequency are unspecified.
- Sample size, row count, and data volume are unknown.
- Relies on satellite retrievals and model outputs, which contain inherent estimation errors as indicated by uncertainty columns.
Provenance
- Source
- NASA Earthdata (OB_CLOUD), Aqua MODIS satellite.
- Collection Method
- Inherent optical properties retrieved from spectral Remote Sensing Reflectance using the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties (GIOP) model framework.
- Time Range
- 2022
- Freshness
- null
- Geography
- Global ocean coverage.