Spectral Transmission and Backscattering Measurements in First-Year Sea Ice

In situ measurements characterize optical properties of first-year sea ice across 13 wavelength bands from 400nm to 1100nm. SCIOPS researchers collected data on scattering length, attenuation length, salinity, temperature profiles, and ice structure at Tent Island, McMurdo Sound. Measurements were repeated at various sites over two seasons, including periods of increasing atmospheric temperature, with the dataset last updated in November 1986.

Use Cases

• Model attenuation length as a function of ice temperature and salinity profiles.
• Analyze scattering length variations across 13 spectral bands from 400nm to 1100nm.
• Investigate seasonal changes in spectral transmission linked to atmospheric temperature increases.
• Correlate backscattering measurements with recorded sea ice structure characteristics.

Strengths

• Data covers 13 distinct wavelength bands for detailed spectral analysis.
• Measurements include auxiliary variables like salinity and temperature-depth profiles.
• Observations were repeated over two seasons, capturing some temporal variation.

Limitations

• Dataset is temporally stale, with last update in 1986.
• Specific sample size (row count) and geographic scope beyond the named site are unknown.
• Lack of column details limits precise understanding of data structure.

Provenance

Source

SCIOPS via NASA Earthdata

Collection Method

In situ measurements using a monochromatic light source on ice surfaces, with auxiliary data on salinity, temperature, and structure.

Time Range

Measurements conducted over two seasons, specific years unknown.

Freshness

1986-11-19

Geography

Tent Island, McMurdo Sound, Antarctica