Multiple Scattering

Effect of multiple scattering on optical signals in the marine environment

This work is focused on determining the role of multiple scattering in the generation of water leaving radiance signals, including degree of polarization, and potential influence on IOP measurements. Multiple scattering has been found to dominate reflectance in turbid waters but also contributes significantly in clear waters. This work has lead to a recent publication in Optics Express that sets out a new, simple model for determining the angular distribution of photons after multiple scattering. Understanding this basic, fundamental optical process will ultimately lead to improved quality IOP measurements and interpretation of ocean colour remote sensing signals.

Collaborators on this work:

Dr Malik ChamiLaboratoire d’Oceanographie de Villefranche, France
Prof Jacek PiskozubPolish Academy of Sciences,  Sopot,  Poland
Multiple scattering is intrinsically a 3D process. Piskozub and McKee 2011 presents a simple model for effective scattering phase functions after multiple scattering.