An explicit inverse radiative transfer algorithm is developed in order to determine solar energy redistribution in a plane-parallel melt pond from direct measurements of pond albedo and depth. The algorithm is based on the exact analytical solution to the forward problem that is found by ignoring scattering in the melt water and assuming a cardioidal upwelling radiance distribution at the pond bottom. Sensitivity of the algorithm to errors in measurements and effects of inaccuracy involved in the direct solution are examined for a broad range of simulation parameters typical for actual melt ponds. Finally, the algorithm is illustrated using data sets relevant to young and old melt ponds under clear and cloudy sky conditions. ¿ American Geophysical Union 1996