Towards operational monitoring of terrestrial systems by moderate-resolution remote sensing

The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) sensor is providing a series of products of unparalleled quality and sophistication for the observation and biophysical monitoring of the terrestrial environment. The capabilities of the MODIS sensor of NASAʹs Terra and Aqua platforms, in observing the terrestrial environment, are a precursor to the operational capabilities of the National Polar Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS) series of missions, which will succeed the current polar operational capabilities of the NOAA series of satellites. Prior to NPOESS, the NPOESS Preparatory Project (NPP) will be launched, acting as a bridge between the two MODIS instruments and the longer term advanced operational capability. The result of these missions will be the establishment of long-term systematic, operational capabilities. Notwithstanding the improvements arising from these missions, there are many lessons to be learnt from current experiences in using MODIS data. Moreover, the timing of the implementation of these missions will provide challenges to users. Additionally, agencies must anticipate a rapid evolution of requirements associated with burgeoning terrestrial programs such as Global Observations of Forest Cover/Global Observations of Landcover Dynamics (GOFC/GOLD) and Terrestrial Carbon Observations (TCO).