Comparative analysis of the chlorophyll A concentrations obtained by the laser-induced fluorescence method (LIF) and SeaWiFS

The method of laser induced fluorescence of the seawater was used for validation of satellite measurements of chlorophyll A concentrations in coastal water of the sea of Okhotsk during scientific cruise in summer 2001 year. Measurements were made by pumping laser fluorometer installed on the sailboard. The second harmonic of the Nd:YAG laser was used to induce the fluorescence spectra, scanning monochromator allows to measure the fluorescence itensity from 540 nm to 740 nm during about 1 minute. Measurements were done during the ship moving, the spatial resolution of chlorophyll A concentration determination was about 200 meters. The ship measurements were compared with chlorophyll A concentrations received by SeaWiFS (level 1a data) at the same time and area by using the global positioning system. The features of the fluorescence spectra were used to determinate the sea water areas where the satellite and fluorometer data were very closed.