Project Objectives


The objective of the COLOR (CDOM-proxy retrieval from aeOLus ObseRvations) project is to assess the feasibility of deriving in-water Aeolus data product from the analysis of the ocean sub-surface backscattered component of the signal acquired by the ALADIN (Atmospheric LAser Doppler INstrument). The project will focus on the potential retrieval of the ocean optical properties at 355 nm.

  • COLOR activities are organized in three different but interacting phases:
  • 1) Consolidation of the scientific requirements;
  • 2) Implementation and assessment of Aeolus COLOR prototype product;
  • 3) Scientific roadmap.


Furthermore, data collection activity will feed phase 1 and 2, encompassing both Aeolus dataset and the ancillary reference/validation datasets.

The proposed approach is to transfer the consolidated lidar know-how from atmospheric to ocean color remote sensing applications by relying on Aeolus data analysis and radiative transfer modeling.


Products, tools and/or applications expected by the study

  • Algorithms for the retrieval of optical properties at 355 nm:
    • Lidar parameters (lidar-attenuation coefficient and in-water particle backscattering)
    • Ocean colour parameters (downwelling irradiance attenuation and hemispheric particulate backscatter)
    • Biogeochemical parameter (Coloured Dissolved Organic Matter - CDOM)
  • Forward model to simulate sea surface and sub-surface ALADIN lidar returns.
  • Radiative transfer simulations of lidar propagation in seawater
  • Aeolus ocean subsurface lidar observation analysis
  • Benchmark and validation of COLOR project results with ocean colour dataset from floats, cruises and other satellite measurements from ESA OC-CCI
  • Scientific roadmap for follow-up studies