Satellite multiangle cumulus geometry retrieval: Case study

Abstract

Most satellite-based analyses have been conducted using near-nadir viewing sensors. The Multiangle Imaging Spectroradiometer (MISR), recently launched on the NASA Terra platform, provides high-resolution measurements of reflectance at nine different viewing angles. In this study, we examine the possible retrieval of detailed cumulus geometry using the new and unique MISR data sets. We suggest one approach and apply it to an early MISR data set of small marine cumulus clouds. This paper also presents validation analysis of this technique with both independent, ground-based radar measurements and a model-output inverse problem. Collocated and coincident MISR data and ground-based observations at the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Tropical Western Pacific site form the basis of this validation. Future work will attempt to test the suggested approach with additional MISR scenes.