Remote Retrievals of Carbon Stocks and Rates: How Are We Doing and Where Are We Going?

Advances in analyses of satellite remote sensing data together with in-situ measurements provide the relationships necessary to estimate carbon stocks and model carbon cycle functions in the global surface ocean. Estimates of total particulate organic carbon and phytoplankton carbon, growth rates, and net primary production can now be made using in-water optical measurements and aircraft and satellite remote sensing data. The NASA Ship-Aircraft Bio-Optical Research (SABOR) field campaign was conducted in the summer of 2014, combining shipboard measurements and experiments with in-water optics and active and passive aircraft remote sensing. SABOR provides a unique opportunity to compare in-water optics, aircraft, and satellite derived stock estimates and modeled rates with direct measurements and experimental rate determinations. Cross-platform comparisons from the SABOR field campaign, insights into what is needed to improve existing relationships, and a direction for extending remote observations to higher trophic levels will be presented.