Calibrated Upwelling Radiance Data from the Space Shuttle Ocean Color Experiment (OCE)

This data set contains radiances measured by eight spectral channels of the Ocean Color Experiment (OCE) onboard the Space Shuttle (STS-2). This data is used to derive chlorophyll concentrations and concentration gradients in upwelling regions of the Earth's oceans. Radiances were collected in 7 visible and one near IR channel, and have been corrected for solar zenith angle, surface albedo, rayleigh scattering, and aerosol scattering. Primary coastal target areas included the southeastern U.S., western Africa, eastern Japan, and from the Strait of Gibraltar to the southern Spanish shore. The OCE scanned a 520 km swath with a resolution of 1-3 km. Approximately 120 minutes of data were collected during this mission resulting in 20-30 minutes of cloud free data. The radiance data are available from NSSDC, though these data are developed specifically for use by the investigator, and contact with the investigator is advised prior to any attempt to use these data. Digital and photographic images of chlorophyll concentrations and concentration gradients have been produced and may be available through the investigator. Data from the Coastal Zone Color Scanner on board Nimbus-7 may also be of interest.