Terra MODIS Level-3 Global Mapped Remote Sensing Reflectance (RRS) Near Real-time Data

Near real-time satellite data products provide global mapped remote sensing reflectance (RRS) measurements. The Ocean Biology DAAC produces these products using the best-available ancillary meteorological and ozone data. These reflectance values are foundational for retrieving ocean color products like chlorophyll-a concentration and support algorithm development and water-quality applications.

Use Cases

• Retrieving chlorophyll-a concentration (chlor_a) based on remote sensing reflectance values.
• Calculating the diffuse attenuation coefficient (Kd_490) based on RRS measurements.
• Developing and validating ocean color algorithms based on the foundational RRS observable.
• Monitoring water quality in coastal and inland waters based on reflectance data.
• Studying marine ecosystems and biogeochemical processes based on derived Inherent Optical Properties (IOPs).

Strengths

• Provides near real-time (NRT) data, offering a snapshot within a single orbit.
• Variables are named by their spectral band center (e.g., Rrs_412, Rrs_443) for clarity.
• Includes per-file quality flags for land, cloud, sun glint, and high aerosol.

Limitations

• Description metadata is limited; actual data quality requires manual inspection after download.
• Row count and file size are unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.
• The inputs and calibration used for NRT products are described as 'less than optimal'.

Provenance

Source

OB_CLOUD / Ocean Biology DAAC

Collection Method

Satellite remote sensing from the Terra MODIS instrument.

Freshness

Near real-time

Geography

Global