Statistical Examination of Atmospheric Aerosol Properties using MODIS Global Data Product

Aerosols are understood to have a complex relationship with the climate system [1]. Aerosol research is currently in a global quantitative phase due to a network of in situ, ground and space based sensors currently in use [2]. Data from the moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) instrument provide a unique view on the temporal and spatial variability of aerosol properties [3]. Presently, the aerosol data can be analyzed on synoptic to global and daily to inter- annual time scales, and decadal time series are expected to be available by the end of the design life of both MODIS instruments. That long climatological data records require careful approach and good understanding of data content to ensure realistic estimates of the natural variability and radiative forcing. The present paper addresses various statistical issues in dealing with MODIS aerosol data, in an attempt to also give users an estimate of inaccuracies when using the GES DISC interactive online visualization and analysis infrastructure (Giovanni).