This book presents the state-of-the-art of optical remote sensing applied for the generation of marine climate-quality data products, with contributions by international experts in the field. The chapters are logically grouped into six thematic parts, each introduced by a brief overview. The different parts include: i. requirements for the generation of climate data records from satellite ocean measurements and additionally basic radiometry principles addressing terminology, standards, measurement equation and uncertainties; ii. satellite visible and thermal infrared radiometry embracing instrument design, characterization and, pre- and post-launch calibration; iii. in situ visible and thermal infrared radiometry including overviews on basic principles, technology and measurements methods required to support satellite missions devoted to climate change investigations; iv. simulations as fundamental tools to support interpretation and analysis of both in situ and satellite radiometric measurements; v. strategies for in situ radiometry to satisfy mission requirements for the generation of climate data records; and finally, vi. methods for the assessment of satellite data products.

Preface Part 1 - Radiometry and Ocean Climate Measurement from Space 1.1 Ocean climate measurements from space 1.2 Principles of optical radiometry Part 2 - Satellite radiometry 2.1 Visible satellite radiometers: design and pre-launch characterization 2.2 On orbit calibration of ocean color reflective solar bands 2.3 Thermal infrared satellite radiometers: design and pre-launch characterization 2.4 Post-launch calibration and stability check of thermal infrared satellite radiometers Part 3 - In situ radiometry 3.1 In situ marine radiometry in the visible and near infrared 3.2 Thermal in situ radiometer systems Part 4 - Theoretical investigations 4.1 Simulation of in situ visible radiometric measurements 4.2 Simulation of satellite visible measurements 4.3 Simulation of in situ and satellite thermal measurements Part 5 - Field intercomparisons and measurement strategies 5.1 Requirements and strategies for in situ radiometry in support of satellite ocean color 5.2 Strategies for laboratory and field measurements in support of thermal satellite radiometry Part 6 - Assessment of satellite products for climate applications 6.1 Assessment of satellite products in the visible domain 6.2 Assessment of satellite products in the thermal domain Index