An improved algorithm for estimating the Secchi disk depth from remote sensing data based on the new underwater visibility theory

The Secchi disk depth (ZSD) is a widely used parameter for evaluating water clarity. Here we propose an improved algorithm, which is based on a new underwater visibility theory, for retrieving more accurate ZSD from remote sensing reflectance (Rrs) in various waters. Two improvements were carried out in the new algorithm. First, we used a hybrid quasi-analytical algorithm (QAA_hybrid) instead of the sixth version of QAA (QAA_v6) for retrieving more accurate total absorption coefficient