Variability of the inherent and apparent optical properties in a highly turbid coastal area: impact on the calibration of remote sensing algorithms

The Southern Bight of the North Sea is characterised by a large influence of river inputs, which results in significant eutrophication of the coastal area. High values of chlorophyll (CHL) and total suspended matter (TSM) have been reported for these waters, associated with blooms of different species and resuspension of bottom sediments. Optical properties vary considerably both seasonally and regionally. Considerable effort has been taken in the past years to retrieve CHL and TSM maps from satellite imagery. An optical characterisation of the area is essential for the understanding of the sa... Mehr ...