Optical properties
- Variations in light penetration and water colour in Greenlandic coastal waters are controlled by sea ice coverage, the amount of detrital organic material and suspended mineral sediments (e.g. from glacial melt waters; see iceberg in right hand inset), and phytoplankton. These photographs are taken in the inner parts of Godthåbsfjorden, one of the study sites of the project. Photo: C.A. Stedmon
The availability and spectral quality of light are key parameters controlling the productivity of Greenlandic coastal waters. Although solar elevation and sea ice cover play an important role, light is also regulated by water constituents (e.g. organic matter, phytoplankton and suspended sediments). Changing ocean circulation patterns and enhanced glacial melt stand to considerably alter the underwater light environment.
This project will develop a 1D model for spectral light attenuation based on field measurements planned in two contrasting fjord systems. Results will provide valuable ground-truth data for remote sensing applications and more accurate description of the light environment for hydrodynamic models.
Updated 04.24.2012