Ocean Optics and Biogeochemistry Protocols for Satellite Ocean Colour Sensor Validation, Volume 2.0. Beam Transmission and Attenuation Coefficients: Instruments, Characterization, Field Measurements and Data Analysis Protocols.

Abstract

Inherent Optical Properties Measurements and Protocols: Beam Transmission and Attenuation (v2.0) is a document that serves as a comprehensive overview of beam transmittance concepts and the calibration, measurement and analysis protocols for the state-of-the-art technologies that measure the attenuation of dissolved and particulate matter in water. Section 1 provides a detailed overview of measurement concepts and governing equations to derive the beam attenuation coefficient. Section 2 details the design characteristics of common transmissometers. Section 3 describes methods for the characterization and calibration of beam transmissometers. Lastly, this document provides detailed data collection and analysis methods in Sections 4 and 5. This protocol document serves as an updated version of Chapter 2 in Ocean Optics Protocols for Satellite Ocean Color Sensor Validation Revision 4, Volume IV (Pegau et al. 2003).