Sentinel-3A OLCI: Ocean Inherent Optical Properties for Water-Type Classification

A near real-time satellite-derived dataset of ocean inherent optical properties produced by the Ocean Biology DAAC. The data provides per-pixel absorption and backscattering coefficients retrieved from spectral remote sensing reflectance using the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties model framework. This activity was informed by the U.S. Government's Satellite Needs Working Group.

Use Cases

• Classifying water types based on retrieved inherent optical properties like absorption and backscattering coefficients.
• Assessing water clarity and biogeochemical processes using phytoplankton and particulate backscattering coefficients.
• Enabling cross-sensor comparisons for satellite ocean color data using the more robust inherent optical properties.
• Supporting forward and adjoint radiative-transfer applications with per-pixel optical property inputs.

Strengths

• Provides near real-time data, offering a snapshot from a single orbit.
• Includes specific geophysical variables such as total absorption, phytoplankton absorption, and particulate backscattering coefficients.
• Supports multiple applications including water-type classification and biogeochemical studies as stated in the description.

Limitations

• Near real-time products use less-than-optimal ancillary data and calibration.
• Row count, column details, and file formats are unknown, limiting suitability assessment.
• Last update date is unknown; freshness unverified.

Provenance

Source

Ocean Biology DAAC (OB_CLOUD) via NASA Earthdata

Collection Method

Satellite observation from Sentinel-3A OLCI sensor, processed using the GIOP model framework.

Time Range

Near real-time, covering short periods within single orbits.

Freshness

Near real-time (NRT)

Geography

Regional coverage from Sentinel-3A observations, likely oceanic areas.