Satellite data from the SeaWiFS instrument on the OrbView-2 platform, last updated in December 2010. The dataset provides per-pixel inherent optical properties of seawater, including total absorption and backscattering coefficients. It is produced by the OB_CLOUD organization using the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties (GIOP) model framework.
Use Cases
- Water-type classification based on inherent optical properties.
- Water-clarity assessment using total absorption and backscattering coefficients.
- Biogeochemical studies leveraging phytoplankton absorption coefficients.
- Cross-sensor comparisons for satellite ocean color data.
- Forward and adjoint radiative-transfer applications.
Strengths
- Provides derived geophysical variables like total absorption and backscattering coefficients.
- Includes uncertainty estimates for key variables such as aph_unc_443 and bbp_unc_443.
- Supports more robust cross-sensor comparisons than apparent optical property products.
Limitations
- Last updated 2010-12-11 23:59:59; freshness should be verified.
- Description metadata is limited; actual data quality requires manual inspection after download.
- Row count and file formats are unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.
Provenance
- Source
- nasa_earthdata
- Collection Method
- Derived from SeaWiFS Level-2 Remote Sensing Reflectance using the GIOP model framework.
- Freshness
- Data last updated in 2010.
- Geography
- Regional Merged Local Area Coverage; specific regions unknown.