Daily Global BRDF Model Parameters from MODIS at 500m Resolution

Daily global data from 2000 to present provides the three model weighting parameters (isotropic, volumetric, and geometric) for deriving surface albedo and reflectance. The dataset is produced by NASA's LPCLOUD using 16 days of combined Terra and Aqua MODIS observations, temporally weighted to the ninth day of the retrieval period. It covers MODIS spectral bands 1-7 plus visible, NIR, and shortwave bands with associated quality layers.

Use Cases

• Deriving surface albedo (MCD43A3) and Nadir BRDF-Adjusted Reflectance (MCD43A4) using the provided isotropic, volumetric, and geometric model parameters.
• Assessing land surface change by analyzing temporal trends in the BRDF model parameters for specific spectral bands (e.g., band 1 for red reflectance).
• Filtering for high-quality retrievals in science applications by applying the band-specific quality flags included with each parameter layer.
• Modeling the bidirectional reflectance distribution for specific land cover types using the three-dimensional parameter layers across 10 spectral bands.

Strengths

• Daily temporal resolution with global coverage.
• 500-meter spatial resolution for detailed land surface analysis.
• Provides model parameters for 10 spectral bands, including visible, NIR, and shortwave.

Limitations

• Data is a model output derived from 16 days of observations, not instantaneous measurement.
• Requires careful use of companion quality data (MCD43A2) and band-specific quality flags to isolate valid retrievals.
• Known issues exist, requiring users to consult the MODIS/VIIRS Land Quality Assessment website for specific sensor and version problems.

Provenance

Source

NASA's Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) instruments on the Terra and Aqua satellites.

Collection Method

Produced daily by LPCLOUD using 16 days of Terra and Aqua MODIS data, with temporal weighting applied.

Time Range

2000 to present (for Version 6.1 series).

Freshness

Daily updates.

Geography

Global.