Aqua MODIS Global Evapotranspiration 8-Day Composite

MYD16A2 Version 6.1 provides global 500-meter resolution estimates of evapotranspiration and latent heat flux as 8-day composites. The dataset is produced by LPCLOUD using an algorithm based on the Penman-Monteith equation, incorporating MODIS remote sensing data and meteorological reanalysis. Each composite period sums evapotranspiration values and averages latent heat flux values over eight days.

Use Cases

• Model regional water balance by integrating the Evapotranspiration (ET) layer with precipitation data.
• Assess vegetation water use and drought stress by analyzing the Potential ET (PET) layer relative to actual ET.
• Calculate surface energy partitioning for climate models using the average Latent Heat Flux (LE) layer.
• Monitor seasonal and interannual land surface dynamics via the 8-day composited vegetation property inputs.
• Perform quality control and uncertainty analysis using the provided quality control layer for data filtering.

Strengths

• Provides four specific data layers: ET, LE, PET, and PLE.
• Global coverage at a consistent 500-meter pixel resolution.
• Data is composited over 8-day periods to reduce noise and gaps.

Limitations

• The last acquisition period each year is only a 5 or 6-day composite, creating inconsistent temporal intervals.
• Known operational and uncertainty issues exist, requiring users to consult external documentation.
• Specific row counts, file sizes, and complete temporal coverage are unknown.

Provenance

Source

LPCLOUD via NASA Earthdata.

Collection Method

Algorithm based on the Penman-Monteith equation, using MODIS remote sensing data and daily meteorological reanalysis.

Freshness

8-day update frequency.

Geography

Global.