Aqua MODIS 16-Day Global Vegetation Indices at 500m Resolution

MODIS/Aqua satellite data provides two primary vegetation indices, NDVI and EVI, at a 500-meter spatial resolution aggregated over 16-day periods. The dataset includes reflectance bands, quality assurance layers, and observation metadata. It is produced by LPCLOUD using NASA's Aqua satellite sensor.

Use Cases

• Monitor crop health and agricultural yield by analyzing temporal NDVI and EVI values for specific regions.
• Model land cover change and deforestation using the time-series of red and near-infrared reflectance bands.
• Assess vegetation biomass and photosynthetic activity by applying the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) layer designed for high biomass regions.
• Filter data for cloud contamination and sensor view angle using the provided quality assurance (QA) layers.
• Study seasonal and interannual vegetation patterns from the 16-day composite global grid spanning multiple years.

Strengths

• Provides two scientifically validated vegetation indices (NDVI and EVI) with continuity to long-term NOAA-AVHRR data.
• Offers 500-meter spatial resolution for detailed regional analysis on a global scale.
• Includes ancillary data layers: four reflectance bands and quality assurance information for validation.

Limitations

• Pixel values are 16-day composites, which may smooth out short-term vegetation changes or events.
• Known data issues exist, requiring users to consult the MODIS Land Quality Assessment website.
• The 500m resolution may be too coarse for studying fine-scale ecological processes or small land parcels.

Provenance

Source

NASA Aqua MODIS satellite sensor, processed by LPCLOUD.

Collection Method

Pixel values are selected from all acquisitions within a 16-day period based on low clouds, low view angle, and highest NDVI/EVI value.

Time Range

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Freshness

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Geography

Global coverage using the sinusoidal (SIN) grid projection.