GOME-2 instruments on MetOp-A, -B, and -C satellites provide global cloud fraction measurements derived from the Optical Cloud Recognition Algorithm (OCRA). The dataset supports monitoring atmospheric trace gases, with an emphasis on global ozone distributions, and includes retrieved cloud-top pressure and cloud optical thickness. Operational level 2 products are generated by DLR for EUMETSAT's AC-SAF, with near-real-time data available within two hours of sensing.
Use Cases
- Analyze global cloud fraction trends over time using the cloud cover data from the OCRA algorithm.
- Correlate cloud-top pressure (height) measurements with atmospheric ozone concentration data.
- Train neural network models, like ROCINN, for cloud information retrieval using spectral reflectance features.
- Investigate the relationship between cloud optical thickness (albedo) and surface ultraviolet radiation intensity.
- Model pollutant dispersion by integrating cloud property data with other atmospheric trace constituent measurements.
Strengths
- Continuous monitoring from three satellites launched in 2006, 2012, and 2018, ensuring long-term data continuity.
- Near-real-time product availability within two hours of satellite sensing for operational use.
- Data generation by DLR within the authoritative EUMETSAT AC-SAF framework, ensuring operational standards.
Limitations
- Specific row counts, geographic resolution, and temporal coverage details are not provided in the input.
- The description does not specify data formats, access methods, or sample size, limiting immediate usability assessment.
- Reliance on algorithm-specific retrievals (OCRA, ROCINN) may introduce systematic biases not detailed here.
Provenance
- Source
- DLR (German Aerospace Center) for EUMETSAT's Satellite Application Facility on Atmospheric Chemistry Monitoring (AC-SAF).
- Collection Method
- Satellite remote sensing data from GOME-2 instruments on MetOp-A, -B, and -C, processed with OCRA and ROCINN algorithms.
- Time Range
- Monitoring from MetOp-A launch in October 2006, continuing with MetOp-B (2012) and MetOp-C (2018).
- Freshness
- null
- Geography
- Global