Validation of ocean color satellite sensors using coastal observational platform in Long Island Sound

Abstract

The Long Island Sound Coastal Observational platform (LISCO) near Northport, New York, has been recently established to support satellite data validation. LISCO is equipped with both multispectral SeaPRISM and hyperspectral HyperSAS radiometers for ocean color measurements. LISCO substantially expands observational capabilities for the continuous monitoring and assessment of ocean color satellite data quality. This offers the potential for improving the calibration and validation activities of current and future Ocean Color satellite missions, as well as for satellite intercomparisons and spectral characterization of coastal waters. Results of measurements made by both the multi and hyperspectral instruments, in operation since October 2009, are presented, evaluated and compared with ocean color satellite data. The comparisons with the normalized water-leaving radiance derived from SeaPRISM with that from MERIS, MODIS and SeaWiFS showed satisfactory correlations (r > 0.9 at 550nm) and consistencies (APD < 15% at 550nm). Similar and equivalent results are obtained when the hyperspectral HYPERSAS data are compared with the same satellite datasets. The results confirm that the LISCO site is appropriate for use in calibration/validation of the ocean color satellites in coastal waters and as a key element of the AERONET-OC network. This makes it possible to foresee a wider use of the LISCO site to monitor current and future ocean color multispectral (NPOESS, Sentinel) and hyperspectral (HICO) satellite missions.