Remote estimation of the diffuse attenuation coefficient in a moderately turbid estuary

Abstract

Abstract Solutions of the radiative transfer equation are used to derive relationships of water reflectance to the diffuse attenuation coefficient (K) in moderately turbid water (K \u3e 0.5 m−1). Data sets collected from the NOAA AVHRR and in situ observations from five different dates confirm the appropriateness of these relationships, in particular the logistic equation. Values of K calculated from the reflectance data agree to within 60% of the observed values, although the reflectance derived using a more comprehensive aerosol correction is sensitive to chlorophyll concentrations greater than 50 μg L−1. Agreement between in situ and remote observations improves as the time interval between samples is narrowed