Global mapped satellite data from the Sentinel-3A Ocean and Land Colour Instrument (OLCI). The dataset provides near real-time Level-3 Reduced-Resolution (ERR) Inherent Optical Properties (IOP) for ocean water, produced by the Ocean Biology DAAC using the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties (GIOP) model framework. This version 2022.0 activity was informed by the interagency Satellite Needs Working Group (SNWG) of the U.S. Government.
Use Cases
- Water-type classification based on inherent optical properties like absorption and backscattering coefficients.
- Water-clarity assessment based on the total absorption and backscattering coefficients.
- Biogeochemical studies based on phytoplankton and particulate backscattering coefficients.
- Forward/adjoint radiative-transfer applications based on per-pixel inherent optical properties.
- Cross-sensor comparisons based on IOPs, which are described as more robust than apparent optical products.
Strengths
- Provides near real-time (NRT) data, offering a snapshot from a short time period within a single orbit.
- Includes multiple geophysical variables such as total absorption coefficient, total backscattering coefficient, and specific coefficients for phytoplankton and particulate matter.
- Derived using the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties (GIOP) model framework on spectral Remote Sensing Reflectance (Rrs).
Limitations
- Description metadata is limited; actual data quality requires manual inspection after download.
- Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.
- The description notes NRT products use less-than-optimal ancillary data and calibration.
Provenance
- Source
- Ocean Biology DAAC (OB_CLOUD), using data from the Sentinel-3A OLCI instrument.
- Collection Method
- Satellite remote sensing data processed with the Generalized Inherent Optical Properties (GIOP) model.
- Freshness
- Near real-time
- Geography
- Global