Navy Calibration/Validation Protocols and Procedures for Visible and Thermal Satellites: Preparing for NPOESS

摘要

We describe the issues associated with the calibration and validation of ocean satellite sensors and systems operating the VIIRS--Vis/IR Imager Radiometer Suite, which is designed as part of the National Polar- orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS). Our objective is to develop a coordinated, integrated calibration/validation plan for Navy ocean satellite products, including the development of standard protocols and procedures to compare satellite retrievals with ground-truth measurements. We outline the measurements required, the collection and analysis protocols for the satellite and in situ data, satellite signal-to-noise constraints for ocean applications, and other important issues that must be addressed to reach the desired levels of accuracy. By building on our existing capabilities and a transition framework that is already in place between the Naval Research Laboratory Stennis Space Center (NRL-SSC) and the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO), we can develop and implement a plan now, using existing systems, in preparation for future systems. This approach will ensure that Navy-wide standard and consistency levels will be achieved for all ocean products across all platforms.