An Integrated Modeling and Observing System with Near Real-Time Applications

A number of advanced systems in computing and observations have been installed at Chapman and are either operational or under advanced development. At Chapman University, we have acquired our own Direct Broadcast XL satellite antenna system which observes the Western United States with near real-time capabilities. With the direct-broadcast antenna we will be able to receive and analyze n near real time NASA Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data from Terra and Aqua satellites, data from MetOp, NOAA POES, and from FY1D (China) satellites. The MODIS sensor simultaneously monitors land, sea and atmosphere with 1km resolution. The data are broadcast on X-band and are being received at Chapman starting in August 2010. There are no operational restrictions to the use of MODIS data and significantly, the sensors will be followed by similar instruments providing a continuity of observations through future operational systems until 2018. These characteristics make MODIS attractive for operational monitoring applications and this presentation describes the design and implementation of a near-real time system to process visible and thermal data from MODIS Terra and Aqua. We also plan to access AIRS on Aqua data. The new satellite receiving station will advance the research and teaching activities in Earth systems science, by demonstrating how satellite technology changes the way we study the Earth .The polar-orbiting satellite data received at Chapman University will support new science development in remote sensing, disaster management and information monitoring systems. The near real-time polar-orbiting satellite data can help to solve real-world environmental problems and to advance the environmental forecasting and regional decision-making. Specific applications will be discussed.