NS001-TMS Forest Canopy Reflectance Data from 1983-84

NASA's NS001 Thematic Mapper Simulator (TMS) dataset contains corrected canopy reflectance values collected over the Superior National Forest. Data were gathered on three days in 1983 and 1984 using a NASA C-130 aircraft flying a crisscross pattern to capture varied sun and view angles. The dataset is processed to support analysis of the bi-directional reflectance function of forest canopies.

Use Cases

• Modeling the bi-directional reflectance function (BRDF) of forest canopies using reflectance values, solar zenith, and sensor azimuth angles.
• Analyzing the impact of sun and view geometry on canopy reflectance measurements from airborne sensors.
• Calibrating or validating satellite-derived vegetation indices with historical, atmospherically corrected airborne reflectance data.
• Studying seasonal changes in forest reflectance using data from July and August 1983 and June 1984.

Strengths

• Data provides multi-angular reflectance observations from a deliberate 'crisscross' flight pattern over three separate days.
• Reflectance values are atmospherically corrected using the LOWTRAN6 model for seven spectral bands (excluding thermal Band 8).
• Sensor zenith angles are estimated to be accurate within one degree, and solar angles within a degree.

Limitations

• View azimuth angles have estimated accuracy of only two to three degrees due to methodological constraints.
• No column names, row counts, or dataset size information are provided across any source.
• Conflicting 'last updated' dates exist between platforms (1984-06-28 on NASA Earthdata and 2026-03-12 on Data.gov).

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Collection Method

Data collected via the NS001 Thematic Mapper Simulator scanning radiometer aboard a NASA C-130 aircraft.

Time Range

1983-07-13 to 1984-06-28

Freshness

2026-03 12 22:19:05.884163

Geography

Superior National Forest study area