VNP43D16: VIIRS BRDF Isotropic Parameter for Band M7

Global daily data provides the isotropic model parameter for the VIIRS M7 band (0.865 μm) at a 30 arc-second (1,000 meter) resolution. This parameter is part of a suite used to derive Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) and albedo values for climate simulation models. Each daily product is generated using a 16-day rolling window of observations, temporally weighted to the ninth day.

Use Cases

• Modeling surface reflectance anisotropy for the VIIRS M7 band based on the BRDF isotropic parameter.
• Inputting pre-processed geophysical parameters into global climate simulation models using the Climate Modeling Grid (CMG) format.
• Analyzing temporal trends in land surface properties using a daily product synthesized from a 16-day observation window.
• Cross-referencing BRDF model parameters with other bands in the VNP43D product suite for comprehensive surface radiative property studies.

Strengths

• Provides global coverage on a Climate Modeling Grid (CMG) designed for direct use in climate models.
• Offers daily temporal resolution, synthesized from a 16-day window to improve data quality and reduce gaps.
• Represents a specific, calibrated geophysical parameter (isotropic) with documented algorithm improvements for the entire Suomi NPP mission.

Limitations

• Metadata completeness is low; specific column names, row counts, and file sizes are not provided by any source.
• Each file contains only a single data layer, requiring users to manage multiple files for a complete analysis.
• The dataset has known issues, requiring users to consult an external website for complete information.

Provenance

Source

NASA/NOAA Suomi NPP satellite, Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) sensor.

Collection Method

Produced daily using an algorithm that processes 16 days of VIIRS observations.

Time Range

Covers the operational period of the Suomi NPP mission; specific start date not provided.

Freshness

Last updated on 2026-04-09 according to nasa_earthdata and datagov.

Geography

Global.