The Global Impact of Polar Orbiter Direct Broadcast Data

In the past, US polar orbiters were labeled as “research” satellites, with the consequence being that they were not fully utilized by the operational community. However, beginning with the inception of free processing packages that provide the capability of local reception sites to calibrate, geolocate and generate science data products from satellite direct broadcast data, the uses of the data have multiplied. Focusing in on the Aqua and Terra satellites, an overview of the direct broadcast applications using MODIS, AIRS and AMSR-E instruments will be presented that include use by the National Weather Service in AWIPS, waterway shipping lane monitoring by the Canadian Ice Service, Fire Detection in South Africa, Tropical Storm monitoring using AMSR-E data in Taiwan, AIRS data assimilation for local NWP in Australia, and the use of MODIS land surface temperature data in the prediction of insect infestation in South America. In addition, radiative transfer schools and direct broadcast seminars held globally have contributed to foster knowledge and use of the data and products. Using the lessons learned from the utility of Aqua and Terra direct broadcast data, preparations are underway to ensure the utility of the JPSS direct broadcast data including support of processing packages, proving ground and user training.