Sentinel-3B OLCI Level 2 Inherent Optical Properties Data

The dataset provides per-pixel inherent optical properties (IOPs) retrieved from Sentinel-3 OLCI imagery using the GIOP model framework. It includes variables like total absorption and backscattering coefficients, supporting water-type classification and biogeochemical studies. The data is produced in near real-time (NRT) by NASA's OB.DAAC.

Use Cases

• Assessing phytoplankton absorption at 443nm for algal bloom monitoring
• Comparing particulate backscattering coefficients across sensors for calibration
• Integrating IOPs into radiative transfer models for coastal management

Strengths

• Provides per-pixel IOPs using a robust model framework (GIOP)
• Supports cross-sensor comparison more reliably than AOP products
• Enables water-type classification and clarity assessment

Limitations

• Near real-time products represent a snapshot; may be less optimal than fully calibrated data
• Row count and file formats are unknown from the description
• Data may reflect biases inherent to the nasa_earthdata platform

Provenance

Source

NASA's Ocean Biology Distributed Active Archive Center (OB.DAAC)

Collection Method

Retrieved from Sentinel-3 OLCI Level 2 imagery using the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties (GIOP) model framework

Time Range

Version 2022, near real-time (NRT) production

Geography

Global coverage over aquatic targets