The SeaWiFS instrument scans 8 wavelength bands across the visible light spectrum, and therefore cannot see much more than the human eye (although what it does see is more sensitively detected and accurately quantified). In contrast the newer MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) instrument monitors 36 spectral bands that encompass wavelengths ranging from 405 - 14,385 nm.

A phytoplankton bloom occurring off the east coast of New Zealand's South Island (near Christchurch), as documented in true color by Terra-MODIS on January 5, 2008. Image courtesy NASA Earth Observatory.

Click the image toggle button to see a different view.