A coupled oceanic and atmospheric spectral optimization algorithm for application to ocean color satellites sensitivitv to near infrared error

A spectral optimization algorithm (SOA) has been developed for processing satellite data in marine waters. The algorithm couples an atmospheric aerosol model with a detailed water-reflectance model to simultaneously retrieve both atmospheric and ocean color parameters. A key feature separating SOA from standard algorithms is the retrieval of the absorption coefficient of colored detrital material, particulate backscattering and chlorophyll concentration in absorbing atmospheres. The same parameters can also be retrieved in Case 2 waters where higher particulate backscattering contributes to the nearinfrared (NIR) water-leaving reflectance. Results of chlorophyll concentration are presented in this study using SeaWiFS data obtained for the Chesapeake Bay and Middle Atlantic Bight. Manipulations to the MR measurements of a degree similar to the magnitude of sensor noise and calibration uncertainty show that the chlorophyll retrievals are highly sensitive to the error in the measured NIR total reflectance.