Satellite Imagery

Satellite Imagery aids in:

• Yield Analysis Prior to Harvest
• Crop Identification and Determining Key Growth Stages
• Validation and Verification (V&V)

Link: Archive Explorer (USDA subscribers only)

USDA-FAS, in cooperation with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the University of Maryland (UMD), Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center (ESSIC) are routinely monitoring lake and reservoir height variations for approximately 100 lakes located around the world. This project is unique, being the first of its kind to utilize near-real time radar altimeter data over inland water bodies in an operational manner. See related article in Earth Observation Magazine.

Related Links:  
JASON-1 | TOPEX/POSEIDON | ESSIC | GIMMS | NASA/GODDARD

MODIS (or Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) is a key instrument aboard the Terra (EOS AM) and Aqua (EOS PM) satellites. Terra's orbit around the Earth is timed so that it passes from north to south across the equator in the morning, while Aqua passes south to north over the equator in the afternoon. Terra MODIS and Aqua MODIS are viewing the entire Earth's surface every 1 to 2 days, acquiring data in 36 spectral bands, or groups of wavelengths (see MODIS Technical Specifications). These data will improve our understanding of global dynamics and processes occurring on the land, in the oceans, and in the lower atmosphere. MODIS is playing a vital role in the development of validated, global, interactive Earth system models able to predict global change accurately enough to assist policy makers in making sound decisions concerning the protection of our environment.
(Source: MODIS Web - About MODIS)

Related Link:   MODIS Rapid Response System