Global Downward Shortwave Radiation Estimates at 3-Hour Resolution

MODIS satellite data provides global estimates of downward shortwave radiation every 3 hours on a 0.05-degree grid. The LPCLOUD organization produces this Level 3 product using a combined Terra and Aqua sensor algorithm. It calculates incident solar radiation in the 300-4000 nanometer spectrum for land surfaces.

Use Cases

• Calibrate land-surface model energy budgets using the 3-hour DSR array.
• Analyze diurnal solar radiation patterns by comparing instantaneous DSR values from individual MODIS overpasses.
• Assess aerosol and cloud loading impacts on surface radiation using the algorithm's look-up table approach.
• Validate other satellite-derived solar flux products against the global DSR layers.
• Study the influence of viewing geometry on radiation estimates using the provided View Zenith Angle layer.

Strengths

• Global coverage on a consistent 0.05-degree (approximately 5.6 km) Climate Modeling Grid.
• Provides data at a high temporal resolution of 3 hours.
• Combines observations from both MODIS Terra and Aqua satellites for improved coverage.

Limitations

• Known issues exist, requiring users to consult external quality assessment websites.
• The algorithm relies on look-up tables and multi-temporal signatures, which may introduce systematic biases in complex atmospheric conditions.
• Specific error metrics or validation statistics against ground measurements are not provided in the description.

Provenance

Source

LPCLOUD, using data from NASA's MODIS Terra and Aqua satellites.

Collection Method

Generated using a prototyping algorithm that derives surface reflectance from MODIS multi-temporal signatures and calculates DSR via look-up tables considering aerosols, clouds, and geometry.

Time Range

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Freshness

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Geography

Global.