VNP43D06: VIIRS BRDF Geometric Parameter for Band M2

Daily global data from the Suomi NPP VIIRS sensor provides the geometric model parameter for Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) and Albedo calculations for band M2 (0.445 μm). Each file is produced using a 16-day rolling window of observations, temporally weighted to the ninth day, and is gridded at a 30 arc-second (1,000 meter) resolution on a Climate Modeling Grid (CMG). This single-layer product is part of a larger suite (VNP43D01-VNP43D39) that separates the three BRDF model parameters for each spectral band.

Use Cases

• Deriving surface albedo for climate models based on the geometric BRDF parameter for the 0.445 μm wavelength.
• Analyzing land surface anisotropy and reflectance patterns using the daily, globally-complete Climate Modeling Grid.
• Inputting BRDF parameters into vegetation or energy balance studies that require the VIIRS M2 band's specific spectral response.
• Investigating temporal changes in surface reflectance properties using the 16-day composite data weighted to a central day.

Strengths

• Provides a specific, physically-based model parameter (geometric) for BRDF/albedo derivation at a consistent 1-km global resolution.
• Data is produced daily with a 16-day composite window, offering a balance between temporal frequency and observation density.
• Cross-platform presence on NASA Earthdata and Data.gov signals its importance and standardization within the earth science community.

Limitations

• The dataset is explicitly noted as decommissioned (Version 1 ended July 31, 2025), directing users to newer versions.
• Metadata completeness is low: column names, row counts, and exact file sizes are unknown across all sources.
• A known issue reduces data quality: high aerosol flag activation in upstream products decreases the number of acceptable input observations.

Provenance

Source

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

Collection Method

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

Time Range

Daily production, using a rolling 16-day window of observations.

Freshness

2026-04-09 21:16:49.861003

Geography

Global coverage on a Climate Modeling Grid (CMG).