NASA VIIRS-Like Cloud Property Algorithms for Next Generation Geostationary Imagers

A new generation of geosynchronous multispectral imagers (ABI on the GOES-R series, AHI on Himawari-8/-9) dramatically improves upon the spatial, spectral and temporal resolution capabilities of heritage GEO imagers. This provides a unique opportunity to extend data records derived from low earth orbit polar orbiting imagers (MODIS on Terra and Aqua, VIIRS on Suomi NPP and the JPSS series) into the time domain. Previously, NASA developed a MODIS-VIIRS continuity algorithm for cloud optical property retrievals that leverages heritage algorithms–MODIS cloud mask (MOD35), MODIS optical and microphysical properties product (MOD06), and the NOAA AWG Cloud Height Algorithm. Because the ABI/AHI imagers mostly overlap with VIIRS with respect to the spectral channels used in the NASA VIIRS cloud product algorithm, porting the VIIRS algorithm to ABI/AHI is relatively straightforward. In addition, the GEO sensors have additional capabilities expected to be useful for cloud retrievals (e.g., atmospheric absorption channels, temporal information). We will report on initial results from a seed study to port NASA VIIRS cloud and aerosol algorithms to the ABI/AHI GEO imagers. The ultimate objective of the study is to better understand the utility of the GEO retrievals, in combination with the analogous LEO atmospheric products, to advance NASA’s research and analysis program. As part of this study, the U. of Wisconsin’s NASA-funded Atmospheric Science Investigator-led Processing System (SIPS) supported the processing and validation of these GEO research cloud products. Results from collocated GEO (AHI) and LEO (VIIRS) inter-comparisons will be presented with the products generated using identical algorithm methodologies and look up tables providing a consistent GEO and LEO cloud record for process and climate studies.