A 2022.0 version dataset from the OrbView-2 SeaWiFS mission provides global mapped inherent optical properties (IOPs) of seawater. It is produced by OB_CLOUD using the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties (GIOP) model framework on satellite-derived remote sensing reflectance. The dataset was last updated in December 2010.
Use Cases
- Classify water types by analyzing spectral slopes (adg_s, bbp_s) and total absorption (a) and backscattering (bb) coefficients.
- Assess phytoplankton biomass concentration using the phytoplankton absorption coefficient at 443 nm (aph_443).
- Model light penetration for radiative transfer applications using the total absorption coefficient (a) and total backscattering coefficient (bb).
- Quantify uncertainty in IOP retrievals for cross-sensor comparisons using fields like aph_unc_443, adg_unc_443, and bbp_unc_443.
- Estimate dissolved organic material concentration from the combined CDOM and detritus absorption coefficient (adg_443).
Strengths
- Provides multiple derived geophysical variables per pixel, including coefficients and their uncertainties.
- Data is processed to a Level-3 global mapped product, enabling spatial analysis.
- Uses a standardized model framework (GIOP) for retrieval, supporting consistent cross-sensor comparison.
Limitations
- Data is based on the SeaWiFS sensor, which ended its primary mission in 2010, limiting temporal recency.
- Uncertainty estimates (e.g., aph_unc_443) indicate potential retrieval errors, especially in complex or coastal waters.
- Specific sample size, row count, and geographic resolution details are not provided in the input.
Provenance
- Source
- NASA Earthdata (nasa_earthdata) via the OB_CLOUD organization.
- Collection Method
- IOPs are retrieved from spectral Remote Sensing Reflectance (Rrs) using the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties (GIOP) model framework.
- Time Range
- Covers the operational period of the OrbView-2 SeaWiFS mission; specific years not stated.
- Freshness
- null
- Geography
- Global ocean coverage.