VNP43D15: VIIRS Band M5 BRDF Geometric Parameter

NASA/NOAA Suomi NPP VIIRS VNP43D15 is a daily, global satellite-derived dataset providing the Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) geometric model parameter for band M5 (0.672 μm). It is produced using 16 days of data at a 30 arc-second (1,000 meter) resolution, temporally weighted to the ninth day, and formatted in a Climate Modeling Grid (CMG) for climate simulations. This single-layer product is part of a larger suite of BRDF/albedo parameters and is used alongside isotropic and volumetric parameters to derive surface reflectance and albedo values.

Use Cases

• Deriving surface albedo for climate models based on the geometric BRDF parameter.
• Analyzing land surface anisotropy and reflectance patterns using VIIRS band M5 data.
• Incorporating temporally weighted, global 1km resolution data into climate simulation grids.
• Cross-referencing geometric parameters with isotropic and volumetric parameters from the VNP43D product suite.
• Monitoring known calibration and geolocation issues via the MODIS/VIIRS Land Quality Assessment website.

Strengths

• Daily production provides frequent temporal updates for dynamic surface monitoring.
• Global coverage at 30 arc-second (1km) resolution in a Climate Modeling Grid is designed for climate models.
• The dataset is part of a rigorously documented product suite with an Algorithm Theoretical Basis Document (ATBD).
• Improved calibration and geolocation algorithms have been applied across the entire Suomi NPP mission.

Limitations

• Metadata completeness is low; specific column names, row counts, and file sizes are unknown across all platforms.
• Each VNP43D product file contains only one data layer, requiring multiple files for full parameter analysis.
• Users must refer to external websites for complete information on known issues.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Collection Method

Produced daily from 16 days of VIIRS satellite data using a BRDF/albedo model.

Time Range

Daily production suggests coverage from the Suomi NPP mission start date onward, but the exact range is not specified.

Freshness

2026-03-12 19:55:36.961041

Geography

Global