Assessing Requirements for Sustained Ocean Color Research and Operations

This issue aims to identify the ocean color data needs for a broad range of end users, develop a consensus for the minimum requirements, and outline options to meet these needs on a sustained basis. The report assesses lessons learned in global ocean color remote sensing from the SeaWiFS/MODIS era to guide planning for acquisition of future global ocean color radiance data to support U.S. research and operational needs.

Ocean color measurements reveal a wealth of ecologically important characteristics including: chlorophyll concentration, the rate of phytoplankton photosynthesis, sediment transport, dispersion of pollutants, and responses of oceanic biota to long-term climate changes. Continuity of satellite ocean color data and associated climate research products are presently at significant risk for the U.S. ocean color community.

Contents
SUMMARY
1 INTRODUCTION
Deriving Ocean Properties from Ocean Color Radiance
Rationale for This Study
The Study’s Task
Report Roadmap
2 SUSTAINING AND ADVANCING OCEAN COLOR RESEARCH AND OPERATIONS
Research and Societal Applications of Ocean Color Products
Ocean Color Data Specifications in Support of Ocean Color Applications
Conclusion
3 LESSONS LEARNED FROM OCEAN COLOR SATELLITE MISSIONS AND ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FUTURE SUCCESS
The Coastal Zone Color Scanner: Proof of Concept
Lessons from the SeaWiFS/MODIS Era
Lessons from the European MERIS Mission
Essential Requirements for Success
Conclusion
4 CAPABILITIES OF CURRENT AND PLANNED OCEAN COLOR SENSOR MISSIONS
Current and Planned Ocean Color Sensors
Analysis of Capabilities and Gaps
Ensuring Global High-Quality Ocean Color Data for the Next Two to Five Years
Ensuring Global High-Quality Ocean Color Data for the Next Five to Ten Years
Conclusion
5 ADVANCING GLOBAL OCEAN COLOR REMOTE SENSING INTO THE FUTURE
Enhancements for the Future
Sustaining Ocean Color Remote Sensing Over the Long Term
Conclusion
REFERENCES
APPENDIXES
A Past, Present, and Planned Sensors
B Vicarious Calibration
C Comprehensive Oceanic and Atmospheric Optical Datasets
D Commercial GEO-Satellite Hosted Remote Sensing
E Acronyms
F Committee and Staff Biographies