The Influence of Bubbles on the Backscattering of Spectral Irradiance in the Upper Ocean
Abstract
The complexity of the oceanic optical environment has suggested that a high degree of spectral resolution will be required to diagnose components of optical variability, and to predict the performance of sensor and weapon systems. For this new hyperspectral approach to be successful, accurate interpretations of the biological and physical processes responsible for variations in the reflectance of the ocean are crucial. Based on extensive theoretical calculations and limited field data, we hypothesize that a large component of optical variability in the upper ocean is the result of variations in the number, the size distribution, and the organic coatings of air bubble populations. The strongest effects relate to the backscattering coefficient, which in turn is directly responsible for the magnitude and spectral distribution of water-leaving radiances detected from air and space-borne hyperspectral imaging radiometers.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA625004
Entities
People
- Alex Hay
- Bruce Johnson
- Marlon R. Lewis