Toward Routine Autonomous Measurement and Interpretation of Optical Variability in Coastal Waters
Abstract
Optical measurements can be used for describing oceanographic processes and for developing predictive models. However, a great deal of time and expertise is required for quality control, data management, and interpretation of results. The full potential of optical observation technology for oceanography will be realized only when appropriate measurements can be made routinely, with automatic generation of robust interpretations. Toward that end, our long-term goal is to broaden the utility of radiometric measurements (upwelling radiance and downwelling irradiance) so that turnkey systems can be developed for the generation of derived data, suitable for use by non-experts. This program of research is aimed at supporting the efforts of primary researchers to interpret water-leaving radiance as measured by radiometer buoys in coastal waters. Complementary measurements with profiling and airborne radiometers are also addressed. Efforts are directed toward: (1) characterizing instrument behavior in the field to define information potential and limitations of the measurements; (2) developing statistical methods for averaging data and rejecting spurious observations; (3) refining algorithms relating optical measurements to properties of surface waters; and (4) supporting efforts to obtain novel information from radiometer buoys (e.g., ultraviolet attenuation and influence of bubbles).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA572666
Entities
People
- John J. Cullen
- Marlon R. Lewis