Evaluating GLOBE Data to Calibrate a Satellite Product for Snow and Ice Discrimination

A proposed algorithm for discriminating snow and lake ice over the Great Lakes is under development. Reflectance data from the GOES-13 imager is being used. The discrimination is based on the spectral property differences of snow, water and ice. Spectral reflectance criteria is under development that will rely on time-dependent thresholds, a result of changing solar altitude during the day. In collaboration between Rowan University and the Institute for Earth Observations at Palmyra Cove - a New Jersey GLOBE Partner - precollege students have been selected to contribute to this research. These students will conduct a “supervised pixel-based classification” technique of hourly images and analyze these data to determine the thresholds. Students will follow a procedure for pixel classification that has been developed by undergraduate students of Rowan University. GLOBE surface temperatures and snow observations will be used as ground validation for testing and calibration of the algorithm. This investigation evaluates the usefulness of GLOBE data in the development of this particular satellite product. At the same time, there is an opportunity to evaluate the mentoring of precollege students by undergraduate students.