Rodell, M., B. Zaitchik, H. Kato, R. H. Reichle, and R. van der Velde:
"Enhancement of Satellite Observations of the Land Surface Via Data Assimilation"
Invited Presentation, AGU Joint Assembly, Acapulco, Mexico, 2007.

Abstract:
Satellite based observation of land surface conditions has transformed the field of hydrology, enabling water cycle studies which span local to global scales. However, such studies are limited by errors in the retrieval algorithms, data gaps, and sometimes low resolutions. Land surface models (LSMs) simulate the redistribution of water and energy incident on the land surface based on our understanding of physical processes, but with limited accuracy. The advantages of each can be harnessed by data assimilation. Here we present examples of how data assimilation can be used for spatial, temporal, and vertical interpolation and downscaling of observations from GRACE, MODIS, and other sources, thus enhancing their value for water resources applications and hydroclimatological investigations.


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NASA-GSFC / GMAO / Rolf Reichle