MODIS/Aqua has already exceeded its design life and a follow-on sensor, VIIRS, is not ready for launch. It is possible that there will be a gap in ocean color observations.
We ask the question: how well can we fill in this gap using an intensified set of field campaigns coupled with an numerical assimilation model? Initial estimates using the year of maximum in situ observations, 1999, indicates we can produce a global annual mean within about 8% of the assimilation of satellite data.
A targeted in situ sampling program may enable improvements in our consistency, ameliorating the effects of a satellite gap until the launch of the follow-on sensor. Several sampling options will be described.
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