NOAA VIIRS Global Particulate Inorganic Carbon Near Real-Time Data

This dataset provides near real-time (NRT) particulate inorganic carbon (PIC) concentration estimates derived from NASA VIIRS satellite observations. The PIC product, generated using the Balch & Gordon algorithm, detects calcite typically associated with coccolithophore blooms in the ocean. It supports studies of carbonate cycling, optical backscatter, and biogeochemical processes alongside other ocean-color variables like chlor_a, Kd_490, PAR, and SST. The data suite includes ancillary meteorological and ozone inputs used in calibration.

Use Cases

• Analyze spatial patterns of particulate inorganic carbon concentration in global oceans.
• Track near real-time coccolithophore bloom dynamics during short-term events.
• Combine PIC estimates with chlor_a, SST, and PAR data for biogeochemical modeling.

Strengths

• Provides near real-time (NRT) snapshots of particulate inorganic carbon concentration.
• Derived from NASA VIIRS satellite data using the established Balch & Gordon algorithm.
• Supports carbonate cycling research and optical backscatter studies alongside standard ocean-color products.

Limitations

• Uncertainties increase in optically complex coastal or inland waters.
• Product performance may degrade under high aerosol loading or glint conditions.
• Near real-time products represent short-period snapshots within single orbits; users should refer to per-mission algorithm notes and quality flags before analysis.

Provenance

Source

NASA VIIRS satellite data processed by NOAA Ocean Biology DAAC (OB_CLOUD).

Collection Method

Algorithm applied to ocean-color reflectance to estimate calcite concentration (Balch & Gordon, 2025).

Time Range

Near real-time (NRT) coverage; version 2025.

Geography

Global ocean coverage.