Bio-Optical Properties inthe Ocean: A Collaboration BetweenJGOFS and the WOCE Hydrographic Program

In order to meet its objectives, the Joint Global Ocean Flux Study must operate in both spatially intensive and spatially extensive modes (JGOFS, 1990), that is, in process studies at specific sites and in ocean surveys. This project is for the collection and processing of data on optics and pigment distributions in the survey mode, and combines the efforts of JGOFS and the World Ocean Circulation Experiment (WOCE) Hydrographic Program (WHP). The researchers will operate a bio- optical profiler to collect data on the biological and optical properties of the upper water column. The measurements to be made include spectral irradiance (upwelling and downwelling), broad-band visible irradiance (PAR), fluorescence, and beam transmission. This study represents the first undertaking of a systematic and consistent data collection on the oceans pigment and optical properties, and should be invaluable in improving algorithms for satellite imaging of ocean pigments and in estimating primary production. The data collected under this program will be provided to the oceanographic community in particular to JGOFS and WOCE Investigators in a timely fashion for analysis.