Global Cloud Fraction Data from ADEOS-II Satellite at 1/4-Degree Resolution

Cloud fraction data is derived from the GLI optical sensor onboard the ADEOS-II satellite, developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The dataset provides global coverage with a spatial resolution of 1/4 degree and a temporal resolution of 16 days, processed using the ATSK16 algorithm. The data was last updated in October 2003, representing the final version (Version 2) from this mission.

Use Cases

• Analyzing spatial patterns of cloud types (e.g., cumulus vs. stratus) using the sum of spatial differences per 1/4-degree bin.
• Estimating surface radiation budgets by integrating cloud fraction data with other atmospheric parameters.
• Studying cloud climatology and variability over 16-day periods across the global EQR map projection.
• Validating climate model outputs against observed cloud properties like maximum, minimum, and sum of pixel values within each bin.

Strengths

• Global spatial coverage with a consistent 1/4-degree grid.
• Includes statistical summaries (sum, square sum, max, min) for each binned pixel.
• Data is processed using a defined algorithm (ATSK16) with cloud property products as input.

Limitations

• Data is temporally stale, with the last update in 2003 and no ongoing collection from the ADEOS-II mission.
• The spatial resolution of 1/4 degree may be too coarse for regional or local-scale cloud studies.
• The physical quantity unit is listed as 'None', which may require interpretation for quantitative analysis.

Provenance

Source

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

Collection Method

Remote sensing observations from the GLI (Global Imager) optical sensor onboard the ADEOS-II satellite.

Time Range

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Freshness

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Geography

Global.