On October 12, 2008, NASA's Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) instrument captured a notable image of Hurricane Norbert.
This image, featured as the NASA MODIS Image of the Day, provided valuable satellite data on the tropical cyclone as it developed.
Observing Hurricane Norbert
NASA's MODIS instrument, flying aboard the Terra and Aqua satellites, is crucial for monitoring Earth's atmosphere, land, and oceans. On October 12, 2008, it successfully captured detailed views of Hurricane Norbert, allowing meteorologists and scientists to track its structure and intensity.
Key Details of the Observation:
- Date of Capture: October 12, 2008
- Subject: Hurricane Norbert
- Instrument Used: Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)
- Purpose: To monitor the hurricane's development and provide critical data for weather forecasting and climate research.
Hurricane Norbert was a significant weather event, and satellite imagery from NASA's MODIS provided essential insights into its characteristics, including cloud patterns, eye formation, and overall size. Such data is vital for:
- Forecasting: Aiding in predicting the hurricane's path and potential impact.
- Research: Contributing to the understanding of tropical cyclone dynamics and climate change.
- Public Safety: Informing communities in the storm's potential path.
The Role of MODIS in Earth Observation
The MODIS instrument is a cornerstone of NASA's Earth Observing System (EOS), designed to collect data from across the globe. Its capabilities include:
- Broad Spectral Range: Capturing images in 36 spectral bands, from visible light to thermal infrared.
- High Spatial Resolution: Providing clear details for various environmental features.
- Daily Global Coverage: Enabling scientists to observe changes over time, which is particularly useful for dynamic events like hurricanes.
For more information on NASA's Earth observation missions and satellite imagery, you can explore resources like the NASA Earth Observatory. These platforms regularly showcase images and data collected by instruments like MODIS, offering a window into our planet's ever-changing environment.
