The Man computer Interactive Data Access System (McIDAS) project began over 30 years ago at the University of
Wisconsin-Madison to analyze and visualize data from the first generation of geostationary weather satellites. McIDAS
continues to provide a strong data analysis and visualization capability for the current environmental satellites. However,
the next generation of operational remote sensing instruments under development for the NPOESS and GOES-R
programs require software tools with expanded capability and performance to support innovative techniques for
developing algorithms, visualizing data and products, and evaluating results. A project is underway at SSEC to develop
the fifth generation of McIDAS, a java-based, open-source system for multispectral and hyperspectral researchers and
algorithm developers that will provide powerful new data manipulation and visualization tools to work in this data rich
environment. NASA EOS MODIS and AIRS data as well as MSG SEVERI and METOP IASI data are now being used
in conjunction with in situ and gridded data to develop new analysis and product validation techniques in the McIDAS-V
environment. This new data analysis and visualization system will support both researchers and operational users of the
advanced measurement systems on NPOESS and GOES R.
HYDRA (Hyper-Spectral Data Research Application) is an interactive visualization and analysis tool developed for the
interrogation and research of multi-and hyper-spectral satellite data. HYDRA has been used extensively around the
world in the training of remote sensing scientists and in the development of applications. This experience represents
valuable preparation for the development of new visualization and analysis tools needed for the upcoming GOES-R and
NPOESS missions. It is listed by the WMO and NASA as a recommended visualization tool.
The MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) instrument provides high spatial and spectral resolution views of each point on the earth four times per day. Both Terra and Aqua platforms have a direct broadcast X-band downlink that allows MODIS (Terra) and MODIS/AIRS (Aqua) data to be received in real time by sites having the proper reception hardware. In order to facilitate use of the data, science production software is being freely distributed through the International MODIS/AIRS processing package (IMAPP). The current suite of IMAPP MODIS products includes navigation and calibration (L1B), cloud mask and cloud top properties, including thermodynamic phase, and atmospheric profiles and water vapor retrievals. The applications have been modified from the operational versions running at the Goddard Distributed Active Archive Center (DAAC) such that the only required external toolkit is NCSA HDF4. Distribution of this software provides scientists around the world with the capability to produce local real-time high spatial resolution science products. MODIS data produced from the University of Wisconsin direct broadcast automated processing is used for a variety of science applications, including calibration and product validation. The data is also being used by other institutions for a range of purposes including assisting USA National Weather Service forecasters and the monitoring of Hudson Bay shipping routes by the Canadian Ice Service. The science software is being implemented globally from Australia to South America. IMAPP has been successful in providing a portable, relatively easy to install and user friendly software package for converting direct broadcast MODIS data into valuable science products.
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