The Marine Optical Laboratory at the Joint Research Centre is a specialised research infrastructure which supports satellite ocean colour validation activities. Ocean optics research is the study of how light interacts with seawater and materials in it (phytoplankton, non-organic particles, coloured dissolved matter,…).

Knowledge of ocean optics is needed in aquatic remote sensing research in order to understand what information can be extracted from the colour of the water as it appears from satellite sensors in space. The work of the laboratory includes the calibration and in situ deployment of above- and under-water sensors using optical methods to study ocean colour, the determination of particulate and dissolved matter concentrations and optical properties, of phytoplankton pigment concentrations, and more.

The JRC contributes in its scientific and technical role to quantify the accuracy of marine Earth Observation data products within the Copernicus Program. In order to support the delivery of reliable information by Space Agencies, the JRC ensures the provision of highly accurate in situ reference data for the permanent calibration and validation of dedicated space mission data such as: spectral water-leaving radiance and remote sensing reflectance; seawater absorption, scattering and back-scattering coefficients; suspended matter and relevant phytoplankton pigment concentrations.