Simultaneous imaging and radiometric performance simulation for computer generated GOCI optical system with measured characteristics

In this study, we report a new Monte Carlo ray tracing technique for estimating GOCI (Geostationary Ocean Color Instrument) radiative transfer characteristics and imaging performance simultaneously. First, a full scale GOCI optical model was constructed with measured characteristics at the component level and placed in the geostationary orbit. An optical model of approximated GOCI target area centered at the Korean penninsular was then built using the USGS coastal line data and representative land and sea surface reflectivity data. The light rays launched from a simulated sun model travel to the Earth surface, where they are reflected and scattered. Some of the light rays that are headed to the GOCI model in the orbit were selected and traced, as they have entered into the GOCI aperture. As they pass through each GOCI optical part, the ray path and intensity are adjusted according to the measured characteristics for reflection, transmission, refractive index and surface scattering. The ray-traced imaging and radiative transfer performance indicators confirm that the computer generated GOCI optical system with measured characteristics can be used for in-orbit operation simulation following the designed measurement sequence. The computational technique and its implications as a operation support tool are discussed.