Abstract
The S-NPP VIIRS has successfully operated for more than 5 years since its launch in October, 2011. Including a day-night band (DNB), the VIIRS collects data in 22 spectral bands, covering wavelengths from 0.4 to 12.4 um. On-orbit calibration of its reflective solar bands (RSB),is performed using a solar diffuser (SD) and solar diffuser stability monitor (SDSM) system. In addition, regularly scheduled lunar observations are used to support RSB on-orbit calibration. In this paper, we provide an overview of S-NPP VIIRS reflective solar calibration activities, methodologies, and progress made from launch to present with a focus on the efforts made by the NASA VIIRS Characterization Support Team (VCST). Topics will include RSB (and DNB) calibration strategies by combining the data collected from on-board SD, the Moon, and selected stars. Also illustrated in the paper are examples of VIIRS RSB on-orbit calibration performance since launch, remaining challenges, and future work in order to maintain and further improve its calibration and data quality.
Progress of S-NPP VIIRS Reflective Solar Calibration
The S-NPP VIIRS has successfully operated for more than 5 years since its launch in October, 2011. Including a day-night band (DNB), the VIIRS collects data in 22 spectral bands, covering wavelengths from 0.4 to 12.4 um. On-orbit calibration of its reflective solar bands (RSB),is performed using a solar diffuser (SD) and solar diffuser stability monitor (SDSM) system. In addition, regularly scheduled lunar observations are used to support RSB on-orbit calibration. In this paper, we provide an overview of S-NPP VIIRS reflective solar calibration activities, methodologies, and progress made from launch to present with a focus on the efforts made by the NASA VIIRS Characterization Support Team (VCST). Topics will include RSB (and DNB) calibration strategies by combining the data collected from on-board SD, the Moon, and selected stars. Also illustrated in the paper are examples of VIIRS RSB on-orbit calibration performance since launch, remaining challenges, and future work in order to maintain and further improve its calibration and data quality.