In Situ Optical Sensor for Fluorescence, Scattering and Transmittance

In order to measure multiparameter data for biological studies, an in situ optical sensor for fluorescence, scattering and transmittance (FST-sensor) was designed and constructed at Japan Marine Science and Technology Center (JAMSTEC). The sensor whose design objectives include capability of towing at 6 knots and high sensitivity in the open sea, has a 148 mm maximum diameter, a total length of 700 mm, a 8 kg weight in air, a light source and four detectors. This paper describes the design and construction of FST-sensor and the preliminary data obtained with CTD system in Sagami Bay to depths of 100 meters.