The ocean algorithm attempts to match calculated reflectances to measured reflectances. To do this the ocean algorithm selects all combinations of the four fine mode and five coarse mode aerosol models and varies the amount of each to find solutions within pre-defined error limits.  All solutions within the error limits are used to calculate an “average” value.  The solution with the lowest error is used for the “best” value.  We recommend that users select the “average” value for ocean products.

For an additional explanation of this process please see the “Dark Target Ocean Algorithm” presentation in our educational and reference material section.