PACE OCI Level-3 Global Mapped Diffuse Attenuation Coefficient of Downwelling Irradiance (KD) Data, version 3.2

Kd is an apparent optical property (AOP) that is derived from IOPs using the Lee bio-optical model. Kd describes how visible light diminishes with depth in the ocean.

Lower values indicate clearer water (deeper light penetration); users commonly apply Kd to estimate euphotic depth, track coastal water quality and turbidity, interpret bloom/light environments, and supply inputs to biogeochemical and ecosystem models. As with all ocean-color products, uncertainties can be larger in optically complex coastal or inland waters; refer to the file metadata and algorithm documentation for quality flags and usage notes.