A Generalized Model of Sea Surface Slopes and Its Application to Sun Glint Correction on HY-1C/COCTS Imagery

A generalized probability density function (pdf) is introduced to enhance sea surface slope modeling for remote sensing applications. This new pdf, which incorporates the anisotropy index to better capture the direction and tilt of surface waves relative to the classical Cox and Munk model proposed 70 years ago, is then applied to sun glint correction in satellite imagery. Sixteen different mean square slope (MSS) models are reviewed to establish both the strengths and limitations of the classical model and the stability and adaptability of the anisotropy index. The new sea surface model applies to a wider range of sea surface states, including those in coastal environments, and provides a stable quantitative description of sea surface topography. Application of the generalized pdf to sun glint correction in satellite imagery demonstrates its overall accuracy and improved efficacy compared to the Cox and Munk model, particularly in maintaining the integrity of sea surface and cloud features in complex weather environments. This initial study provides a promising approach to improve the accuracy and reliability of sun glint correction in remote sensing of water surfaces, with applications to improving both historical and future satellite-based climate data records.