Oceanographic wide field sensor

Abstract

The Oceanographic Wide Field Sensor (SeaWiFS) science project will provide measurements of ocean color from space to which will support research into: (1) the character of ocean physical and biological processes; (2) to assess the global oceanic biomass; and (3) to better understand the role of oceanic processes in modulating the Earth's biogeochemical cycles, including the CO2 cycle as it is affected by fossil fuel combustion. The present work extends previous work to study the feasibility of an ocean color mission using the proposed compact Wide-Field Sensor (SeaWiFS) and the EOSAT Corporation's LANDSAT-6 satellite. A Phase A study was conducted which defines a NASA Facility Data System and accompanying Science Program for the EOSAT Company's commercial ocean color instrument called SeaWiFS to be launched on board LANDSAT-6 in 1991.