Development of Total Suspended Matter (TSM) Algorithm and Validation over Gujarat Coastal Water, the Northeast Arabian Sea Using In Situ Datasets

Abstract TSM is an essential parameter as it affects the biogeochemistry of the ocean. The high TSM range affects light penetration that’s related to the photosynthesis of primary producers. The aim is to develop a TSM algorithm in Gujarat coastal water using remote sensing reflectance (Rrs), to monitor TSM concentration from the satellite. Seawater sampling and HyperOCR radiometer data collection were carried out in the northeast Arabian Sea. The high suspended matter was observed near the Gulf of Khambhat due to industries and riverine fluxes. For an accurate TSM algorithm, we compared the developed algorithm to previous studies. The TSM algorithm has been developed using the Rrs681/Rrs490 band ratio that has the highest linear correlation (R2 = 0.977, MSE = 19.06). Rrs band ratios demonstrated better compared to single Rrs bands. Satellite images were generated by applying the developed algorithm with the input of Rrs681 and Rrs490 from OLCI. The developed algorithm has been validated successfully with in situ TSM data points, collected across the Daman, Porbandar, and Okha coastal waters. The study indicates that the developed algorithm can be more robust and valuable for various satellite-based synoptic mapping of TSM, including the future Indian Oceansat-3 OCM mission.