VIIRS mission-long ocean color data reprocessing: Evaluations of data product and sensor performance
In this paper, we provide an overview of the progress on producing accurate and consistent ocean color products from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) onboard the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (SNPP). To meet requirements from broad users (e.g., operational, research, modeling, etc.), we have proposed and now been routinely producing two VIIRS ocean color data streams, i.e., the near-real-time (NRT) and delayed science quality ocean color product data. The implementation details for the two data streams will be discussed. In addition, with significantly improved satellite data processing algorithms, as well as considerably improved sensor on-orbit radiometer calibration using both solar and lunar methods, VIIRS mission-long ocean color data have been successfully reprocessed using the Multi-Sensor Level-1 to Level-2 (MSL12) ocean color data processing system. VIIRS ocean color data have been significantly improved over the global open ocean, as well as turbid coastal and inland waters. In particular, VIIRS-derived water property data over global high altitude lakes (e.g., Lake Victoria in South Africa) are now very much improved, providing a significant progress for satellite remote sensing of inland water properties. Some detailed evaluation of VIIRS ocean color products, as well as sensor performance, will be discussed. Results show that VIIRS can provide high-quality global ocean color products in support of the science researches and operational applications.