Abstract
Sea ice concentration has been retrieved in polar
regions with satellite microwave radiometers for over
30 years. However, the question remains as to what is an
optimal sea ice concentration retrieval method for climate
monitoring. This paper presents some of the key results of an
extensive algorithm inter-comparison and evaluation experiment.
The skills of 30 sea ice algorithms were evaluated systematically
over low and high sea ice concentrations. Evaluation
criteria included standard deviation relative to independent
validation data, performance in the presence of thin ice
and melt ponds, and sensitivity to error sources with seasonal
to inter-annual variations and potential climatic trends, such
as atmospheric water vapour and water-surface roughening
by wind. A selection of 13 algorithms is shown in the article
to demonstrate the results. Based on the findings, a hybrid approach
is suggested to retrieve sea ice concentration globally
for climate monitoring purposes. This approach consists of a
combination of two algorithms plus dynamic tie points implementation
and atmospheric correction of input brightness
temperatures. The method minimizes inter-sensor calibration
discrepancies and sensitivity to the mentioned error sources.
Original language | English |
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Journal | The Cryosphere |
Volume | 9 |
Pages (from-to) | 1797–1817 |
ISSN | 1994-0416 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2015 |
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Dive into the research topics of 'Inter-comparison and evaluation of sea ice algorithms: towards further identification of challenges and optimal approach using passive microwave observations'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.Projects
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ESA Climate Change Initiative, Sea-ice project
Pedersen, L. T. (Project Participant), Saldo, R. (Project Participant) & Skourup, H. (CoI)
Project: Research