MLS/Aura Near-Real-Time Carbon Monoxide Profiles from Satellite

Near-global (-82 to +82 degrees latitude) carbon monoxide (CO) profiles measured by the Aura satellite's Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS). The National Aeronautics and Space Administration provides this near-real-time data, typically available within 3 hours of observation, covering the most recent 7 days. Profiles are derived from the 240 GHz region, spaced 1.5 degrees along the orbit track, and cover vertical pressures from 215 to 0.1 hPa.

Use Cases

• Monitor near-real-time global carbon monoxide distribution based on satellite profiles.
• Analyze atmospheric chemistry dynamics based on vertical pressure coverage from 215 to 0.1 hPa.
• Validate atmospheric transport models based on near-global spatial coverage (-82 to +82 degrees latitude).
• Study short-term pollution events based on data latency within 3 hours of observation.

Strengths

• Data latency is typically within 3 hours of observation, enabling near-real-time analysis.
• Spatial coverage is near-global, spanning from -82 to +82 degrees latitude.
• Vertical coverage is extensive, from 215 to 0.1 hPa pressure.

Limitations

• The near-real-time algorithm uses a simplified model and is described as less accurate than standard products.
• Data requires screening according to user guide recommendations for scientific usefulness.
• Row count and sample data are unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Collection Method

Satellite measurements from the EOS Aura Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) instrument.

Time Range

Most recent 7 days of data are available online.

Freshness

Last updated 2026-03-13 00:01:29.945753; the most recent 7 days of data are available online.

Geography

Near-global coverage from -82 degrees to +82 degrees latitude.