Global Mapped Ocean Remote-Sensing Reflectance From VIIRS

2022.0 version data provides global mapped remote-sensing reflectance (Rrs) values across multiple spectral bands, such as Rrs_412 and Rrs_443. This foundational observable is produced from NOAA-20 VIIRS satellite measurements by the OB_CLOUD organization. It is used to derive ocean color products like chlorophyll-a concentration and supports water-quality and ecosystem applications.

Use Cases

• Retrieving chlor_a concentration using Rrs values from specific bands like Rrs_443.
• Developing and validating new ocean color algorithms with the foundational Rrs_λ variable.
• Assessing coastal water quality by analyzing Rrs data in optically complex waters.
• Estimating the diffuse attenuation coefficient Kd_490 from Rrs spectral data.

Strengths

• Global spatial coverage enabling worldwide oceanographic studies.
• Provides the foundational Rrs observable for deriving multiple biogeochemical products.

Limitations

• Data quality in coastal and inland waters is complex and requires careful review of per-file flags for land, cloud, and aerosol contamination.
• Specific sample size, temporal range, and update frequency are not provided.

Provenance

Source

NOAA-20 VIIRS satellite sensor, processed by OB_CLOUD.

Collection Method

Satellite remote sensing measurements of water-leaving radiance.

Time Range

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Freshness

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Geography

Global