Spectral Characterization of Coastal Red Tide Events

Michael Ondrusek, NOAA, michael.ondrusek@noaa.gov (Presenter)
Eric Stengel, NOAA, eric.stengel@noaa.gov

Hyperspectral upwelled radiance measurements were conducted to optically characterize red algal blooms. Hyperpro radiometer profiles were conducted inside and out of red algal blooms in the Peconic Bay off Long Island (August 2010), in the Elizabeth River in Norfolk, VA (August 2011), and in the mouth of the Severn River in the Chesapeake Bay (September, 2011). Spectral characteristics are compared between the different blooms and normal conditions to develop remote sensing monitoring tools and to define requirements for future coastal ocean color satellite sensors. A distinguishing characteristic of these red tide blooms is a prominent peak in water-leaving radiance at 700 nm relative to the main peak in the green. This is part of an ongoing effort to develop ocean color applications and products in coastal waters to provide state of the art environmental satellite data to decision makers.

Presentation Type:  Poster

Session:  Science in Support of Decision Making   (Wed 10:00 AM)

Associated Project(s): 

• Related Activity

Poster Location ID: 200