Abstract:
This paper describes an in situ new technology optical fibre-based
system designed to yield simultaneous measurements of the spectral attenuation
coefficient, c(λ), and the volume scattering function at 120◦ backwards on ocean
waters, within the spectral range 400–800 nm. The volume scattering function at
120◦, β(120◦, λ), will be used to derive the backward scattering coefficient, bb(λ).
Optical and mechanical designs are presented. The considerations leading to the
design of the instrument, its capabilities and the unique features it incorporates are
discussed. Methods for absolute calibration of the instrument are presented.
