Daily Global Shortwave Albedo Parameters from MODIS Satellites

Daily global data produced using 16 days of Terra and Aqua MODIS observations at 30 arc second (1,000 meter) resolution. The dataset provides the volumetric parameter for the MODIS shortwave broadband, used to derive Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function and Albedo values. It is produced by LPCLOUD for use in climate simulation models.

Use Cases

• Modeling shortwave albedo by combining the volumetric parameter with isotropic and geometric parameters.
• Analyzing daily surface reflectance dynamics for climate grids using the 30 arc second resolution data.
• Filtering data quality for scientific applications using the band-specific quality flags mentioned in the user guide.
• Integrating the volumetric parameter into land surface models for shortwave broadband radiation calculations.

Strengths

• Daily temporal resolution with data weighted to a central ninth day.
• Global spatial coverage at a 30 arc second Climate Modeling Grid resolution.
• Parameters derived from 16 days of combined Terra and Aqua MODIS observations.

Limitations

• Each product file contains only one data layer, limiting immediate multi-parameter analysis.
• Known issues exist, requiring consultation of the MODIS/VIIRS Land Quality Assessment website.
• The volumetric parameter alone is insufficient; requires combination with other parameters for full albedo derivation.

Provenance

Source

LPCLOUD using Terra and Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data.

Collection Method

Produced daily using a temporally weighted 16-day window of MODIS observations.

Freshness

Daily

Geography

Global