Sensor Performance Assessment for Terra and Aqua MODIS Using Unscheduled Lunar Observations

Abstract: The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) has been in operation for over 18 and 16 years on the Terra and Aqua spacecrafts, respectively. In order to maintain long-term calibration stability over the life of each mission, MODIS uses a set of on-board calibrators as well as observations of the Moon and selected Earth-view targets. The lunar observations nominally occur in a narrow phase angle range, 55 degrees – 56 degrees, and use scheduled spacecraft maneuvers in order to bri…