Analyses of MODIS retrieved cloud properties of cumulus clouds in Brazil

Cloud optical depth and effective radius are two important parameters for atmospheric radiative transfer and consequently in understanding roles of clouds in modulating the climate. These two parameters are routinely retrieved from MODIS (MODerate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on both Terra and Aqua satellites providing global scale coverage of cloud properties. In this study we analyze MODIS retrieved cloud properties in two cumulus cloud fields in Brazil. Both cloud fields are shallow warm clouds, which are commonly seen from MODIS images in this region where there is a growing interest in the research of aerosol-cloud indirect effects on climate. The two cloud cumulus cloud fields have been selected as potential cases for the phase III of the I3RC (International Intercomparison of 3D Radiation Codes). In this presentation we will present detailed analyses of MODIS retrieved cloud optical depths and cloud droplet sizes from the two cloud fields. We will discuss the similarities and differences of cloud properties in the two cumulus clouds and possible physical mechanisms behind.

Reference: Cahalan, R. F., et al, 2005: The International Intercomparison of 3D Radiation Codes (I3RC): Bringing together the most advanced radiative transfer tools for cloudy atmospheres. Bull. Amer. Meteor. Soc. 86 (9), 1275-1293.