Sentinel-3A OLCI Level-3 Global Binned Earth-observation Reduced-Resolution (ERR) Inherent Optical Properties (IOP) Data, version 2022.0, provides per-pixel inherent optical properties retrieved from spectral Remote Sensing Reflectance using the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties (GIOP) model framework. The dataset includes variables such as total absorption and backscattering coefficients, and phytoplankton absorption at 443 nm. This activity was informed by the Satellite Needs Working Group (SNWG), an interagency effort of the U.S. Government.
Use Cases
- Water-type classification based on inherent optical properties like total absorption coefficient.
- Water-clarity assessment based on total backscattering coefficient.
- Biogeochemical studies based on phytoplankton absorption coefficient at 443 nm.
- Forward/adjoint radiative-transfer applications based on retrieved inherent optical properties.
- Cross-sensor comparisons based on inherent optical properties rather than apparent optical products.
Strengths
- Data is derived from the Sentinel-3A OLCI satellite sensor.
- Products are generated using the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties (GIOP) model framework.
- The dataset supports more robust cross-sensor comparisons than purely apparent optical products.
Limitations
- Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.
- Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
- Last update date is unknown; freshness unverified.
Provenance
- Source
- OB_CLOUD via NASA Earthdata.
- Collection Method
- Inherent optical properties retrieved from spectral Remote Sensing Reflectance using the GIOP model.
- Geography
- Global