Sequoia releases new technology to ocean research

Sequoia releases new technology to ocean research

Research and innovation continue to thrive within the science and engineering teams at Sequoia Scientific, Inc. (Sequoia), which announces the Hyper-bb product offering.

Sequoia scientist Dr. Wayne Slade has developed a hyperspectral backscattering instrument (Hyper-bb) through a NASA Phase II SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) grant. A prototype has been delivered to NASA for testing. This is Dr. Slade’s and Sequoia’s second SBIR-funded development and delivery in 2019.

Hyperspectral backscattering has been identified as a measurement gap in closure and validation studies for planned hyperspectral ocean color sensors, such as NASA’s planned Plankton, Aerosols, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem (PACE) mission. Hyper-bb employs technology similar to existing backscattering sensors used in the ocean optics community, but extends the spectral coverage using continuously varying bandpass technology. Hyper-bb’s backscattering measurements with higher spectral coverage complement other currently available instruments measuring hyperspectral optical properties, including absorption, beam attenuation, and radiometry.

The Hyper-bb is a submersible instrument, rated to 600 meters, with internal data storage, and is easily integrated into existing moored and profiling packages. The backscattering measurements collected by the Hyper-bb are highly relevant to ocean color remote sensing and ocean biogeochemistry research.

Features

  • Spectral backscattering over the wavelength range 430 nm to 700 nm.
  • High-performance depth and temperature sensors.
  • Internal data storage.
  • Powered from external battery pack (optional accessory), CTD, or 2-50 m power/communication USB cable.