NOAA-20 VIIRS: Global Mapped Sea Surface Temperature Near Real-time Data

NOAA-20 VIIRS Level-3 Global Mapped 11µm Day/Night Sea Surface Temperature (SST) - Near Real-time (NRT) Data, version R2024.0 is produced by the NASA Ocean Biology DAAC. The dataset provides a quicklook snapshot of global sea surface temperature using satellite observations from a single orbit. It is processed with less-than-optimal ancillary and calibration data for near real-time availability.

Use Cases

• Monitor near real-time ocean thermal anomalies for event detection based on the quicklook product nature.
• Analyze diurnal sea surface temperature variation based on day/night observation capability.
• Assimilate satellite-derived SST into short-term ocean forecast models based on the near real-time availability.
• Study spatial patterns of global sea surface temperature based on the global mapped product format.

Strengths

• Data is produced by NASA's Ocean Biology DAAC, an authoritative source for oceanographic satellite data.
• Provides near real-time (NRT) availability for rapid analysis.
• Offers global spatial coverage for a comprehensive geographic view.
• Includes both day and night observations for diurnal cycle analysis.

Limitations

• Description metadata is limited; actual data quality requires manual inspection after download.
• The quicklook product uses less-than-optimal ancillary and calibration inputs, as stated in the description.
• Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Ocean Biology DAAC

Collection Method

Satellite remote sensing from the NOAA-20 spacecraft's VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) instrument.

Time Range

Near real-time, covering a short time period within a single orbit.

Freshness

Last updated 2026-03-12 23:14:41.316288; freshness should be verified.

Geography

Global