Volume scattering function measured in the oceans and lakes (2009–2024)

Abstract Volume scattering function (VSF) is a fundamental inherent optical property but has been scarcely measured in natural environments. To address this observational gap, we compiled a dataset of non‐water, particle VSFs ( β p ) measured in a variety of waters, covering inland, coastal, and open oceans. A total of 1013 β p with an overall ≤ 1° angular resolution at scattering angles between 0° and 180° were acquired using two instruments, a prototype device, MVSM, and a commercial device, LISST‐VSF. Inter‐instrument consistency was demonstrated by comparison of 150 pairs of β p that were measured simultaneously by both instruments. Additional optical properties such as scattering coefficient ( b p ), backscattering coefficient ( b bp ), scattering phase function ( β̃ p ), and backscattering shape factor ( χ p ) can be easily derived. The dataset and its derived products are expected to provide much needed in situ angular scattering data by natural aquatic particles to support studies in ocean optics and biogeochemistry.