MODIS is now operational on the Terra platform and has been selected to fly on the Aqua mission. MODIS is designed to measure biological and physical processes on a global basis every 1 to 2 days. It provides long-term observations from which an enhanced knowledge of global dynamics and processes occurring on the EarthΓÇÖs surface and in the lower atmosphere can be derived. MODIS will yield simultaneous observations of atmospheric cloud cover and associated properties; oceanic surface temperatures and chlorophyll content; and land surface cover, land surface temperature, and land vegetation properties.
MODIS is expected to make major contributions to understanding the global Earth system, including interactions between land, ocean, and atmospheric processes. MODIS operates continuously to provide daylight imaging, using reflected sunlight, and day/night imaging, using radiation emitted from the atmosphere and land and sea surface.
