TOMS Reflectivity
This image displays global reflectivity from the last official data
collection day of the TOMS instrument, Dec. 13, 2005.
The solar irradiance reflected up to a spacecraft from the surface of
the Earth can be used to calculate reflectivity.
Reflectivity calculated for specific bandwidths is needed for
the calculation of total column ozone from the TOMS and OMI instruments.
Reflected radiation can come from two surfaces, the ground, and the tops
of clouds. Reflectivity is determined from the measurements at
380 nm, or 360 nm in the case of Earth Probe. Clouds are clearly
defined and recognizable in images produced using TOMS and OMI
reflectivity data.
Please see the 08-15-2007 News item regarding the most recent data correction.