Passive ocean color remote sensing has revolutionized our ability to quantify the horizontal distribution of phytoplankton across the ocean surface. Lidar (Light Detection And Ranging) technology has the potential to similarly revolutionize our ability to remotely measure the vertical distribution of optical properties and suspended particles in natural waters, significantly improving our predictive understanding of ocean biogeochemical processes in 3-dimensional space and time. For Lidar technology to be effective in providing such measurements in the field (ocean), it needs to be low Size, Weight and Power (SWaP), while maintaining high performance. In this project we propose the OLEAS: Oceanographic Lidar for Environmental Assessment We will take the next important step in oceanographic lidar by developing a low-cost, compact, rugged system, capable of remotely characterizing the spatial structure of optical and biogeochemical properties of the water column from moored platforms, surface vessels and underwater vehicles. A successful completion of the project would be a welcome addition for all facilities that need to continuously and remotely monitor and estimate the vertical distribution of optical properties and suspended particles in natural waters, significantly improving our ability to model upper ocean biogeochemical processes.
