Extended Abstract (1.4M)JP1.2
Clear-Sky and Surface Narrowband Albedo Datasets Derived From MODIS Data
Yan Chen, SSAI, Hampton, VA; and P. Minnis, S. Sun-Mack, R. F. Arduini, and Q. Z. Trepte
Satellite remote sensing of clouds requires an accurate estimate of the clear-sky radiances for a given scene to detect clouds and aerosols and to retrieve their microphysical properties. Knowing the spatial and angular variability of clear-sky and surface albedo is essential for predicting the clear-sky radiance at solar wavelengths. The Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) Project uses the near-infrared (NIR; 1.24, 1.6 or 2.13 µm) and visible (VIS; 0.63 µm) channels available on the Terra and Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometers (MODIS) to help identify clouds and retrieve their properties. Generally, clear-sky albedo for a given surface type is determined for conditions when the vegetation is either thriving or dormant and free of snow. The surface albedos are derived using a radiative transfer parameterization of the impact of the atmosphere, including aerosols, on the observed reflectances. This paper presents the method of generating monthly clear-sky overhead albedo maps for both snow-free and snow-covered surfaces of the above 4 channels using one year of MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) CERES products. These maps are used as the background to determine the variations in clear-sky top-of-atmosphere (TOA) reflectances at a given set of viewing and illumination angles. Angular, seasonal, and local variations of the overhead are characterized for all appropriate channels.
Joint Poster Session 1, Cloud Remote Sensing Posters
Monday, 28 June 2010, 5:30 PM-8:30 PM, Exhibit Hall
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