NASA's OceanColor Web is supported by the Ocean Biology Processing Group (OBPG) at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. Our responsibilities include the collection, processing, calibration, validation, archive and distribution of ocean-related products from a large number of operational, satellite-based remote-sensing missions providing ocean color, sea surface temperature and sea surface salinity data to the international research community since 1996.

Ocean Color Feature

Gulf of Aden

This Aqua/MODIS scene of the Gulf of Aden on the western end of the Arabian Sea, shows populations of phytoplankton carried along by the turbulent surface currents that are common in this region. This particular scene was collected on February 12, 2018, but the Gulf supports phytoplankton blooms during other seasons of the year as well.

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Ocean Biology Distributed Active Archive Center (OB.DAAC)

The OBPG serves as a Distributed Active Archive Center (DAAC) for satellite ocean biology data produced or collected under NASA's Earth Observing System Data and Information System, including those from historical missions and partner space organizations and is a member of the International Council for Science - World Data System (ICSU-WDS).

SeaDAS

SeaDAS is an image analysis package for the processing and display of satellite ocean color data.

SeaBASS

SeaBASS is a repository of in situ oceanographic data to support algorithm development and satellite data product validation activities.

Field Support Group

The OBPG maintains a Field Support Group that collects in situ data, engages in community measurement protocols activities, and hosts an HPLC phytoplankton pigment processing facility.