Using the Special Sensor Microwave/Imager to Monitor Land Surface Temperatures, Wetness, and Snow Cover

Abstract
The worldwide network of in situ land surface temperatures archived in near-real time at the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) has limited applications, since many areas are poorly represented or provide no observations. Satellite measurements offer a possible way to fill in the data voids and obtain a complete map of surface temperature over the entire globe. A method has been developed to calculate near-surface temperature using measurements from the Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SSM/I). To accomplish this, the authors identify numerous surface types and make dynamic adjustments for variations in emissivity. Training datasets were used to define the relationship between the seven SSM/I channels and the near-surface temperature. For instance, liquid water on the surface reduces emissivity; therefore, the authors developed an adjustment to correct for this reduction. Other surface types (e.g., snow, ice, and deserts) as well as precipitation are identified, and numerous adjustments and/or f... Abstract The worldwide network of in situ land surface temperatures archived in near-real time at the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) has limited applications, since many areas are poorly represented or provide no observations. Satellite measurements offer a possible way to fill in the data voids and obtain a complete map of surface temperature over the entire globe. A method has been developed to calculate near-surface temperature using measurements from the Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SSM/I). To accomplish this, the authors identify numerous surface types and make dynamic adjustments for variations in emissivity. Training datasets were used to define the relationship between the seven SSM/I channels and the near-surface temperature. For instance, liquid water on the surface reduces emissivity; therefore, the authors developed an adjustment to correct for this reduction. Other surface types (e.g., snow, ice, and deserts) as well as precipitation are identified, and numerous adjustments and/or f...

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