VNP43D04: VIIRS BRDF Isotropic Parameter for Band M2

NASA/NOAA Suomi NPP VIIRS VNP43D04 provides the isotropic model parameter for Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) and Albedo calculations for spectral band M2 (0.445 μm). This daily, global product is generated at 30 arc-second (1,000 meter) resolution on a Climate Modeling Grid, using a 16-day data window weighted to the ninth day. It is part of a larger suite where each of three BRDF parameters for multiple spectral bands is stored in a separate file.

Use Cases

• Deriving surface albedo for climate models based on the BRDF model parameters.
• Analyzing temporal changes in land surface reflectance using the daily, 16-day composite data.
• Studying surface anisotropy for band M2 (0.445 μm) using the isolated isotropic parameter.
• Inputting BRDF parameters into ecosystem or energy balance models that require spectral surface reflectance data.

Strengths

• Provides global coverage on a Climate Modeling Grid (CMG) designed for climate simulation models.
• Offers daily temporal resolution with a 16-day composite window to improve data quality.
• Delivers data at a consistent 30 arc-second (approximately 1 km) spatial resolution.

Limitations

• The dataset (Version 1) was officially decommissioned on July 31, 2025, directing users to newer versions.
• Metadata for row count, file size, and specific columns is unavailable across all sources.
• Known issues exist, such as reduced input observations due to high aerosol flag activations in upstream data.

Provenance

Source

NASA/NOAA Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (Suomi NPP) Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS).

Collection Method

Satellite remote sensing, processed through the VNP43 BRDF/Albedo algorithm.

Time Range

Daily production.

Freshness

2026-04-09 20:53:51.989713

Geography

Global.