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Ocean Color: OVERVIEW
What is Ocean Color?
The "color" of the ocean is determined by the interactions of incident light with substances or particles present in the water. The most significant constituents are free-floating photosynthetic organisms (phytoplankton) and inorganic particulates. Phytoplankton contain chlorophyll, which absorbs light at blue and red wavelengths and transmits in the green. Particulate matter can reflect and absorb light, which reduces the clarity (light transmission) of the water. Substances dissolved in water can also affect its color.
The phrase "ocean color data" refers to accurate measurements of light intensity at visible wavelengths. As ocean color data is related to the presence of the constituents described above, it may therefore be used to calculate the concentrations of material in surface ocean waters and the level of biological activity. Ocean color observations made from Earth orbit allow an oceanographic viewpoint that is impossible from ship or shore -- a global picture of biological activity in the world's oceans.
Ocean Color at the GES DISC -- History of Achievement
The GES DISC, and in its prior incarnation as the DAAC, is a pioneer in the distribution of ocean color data. The Coastal Zone Color Scanner archive was one of the first instances of a system that provided a visual "browse" preview of remote sensing images to enhance data ordering. The SeaWiFS archive provided data access to this important mission on the first full day of data acquisition in September 1997. The MODIS data system provided full access to a extensive suite of remotely-sensed data products. The DAAC also developed a variety of informational and outreach materials to enhance knowledge, and provided constant support services to users.
Evolution and Change in the 21st Century
The NASA Ocean Biology Processing Group (built from the SeaWiFS Project) has undertaken data access and distribution or ocean color data through the Ocean Color Web. This allows ongoing data analysis and data reprocessing activities to be performed concurrently. Questions about ocean color data from historical and current NASA missions may be posted on the Ocean Color Forum.
Heritage Ocean Color Education and Outreach Links:
Content created at the GES DISC
Content created by collaborators
