Satellite Meteorology: GOES Channel Selection Shortwave IR Window Channel - Summary

Return to the previous menu.

• 3.78 - 4.03 microns

• 4-km FOV sampled every 2.3 km in the east-west direction

• 0.23°C temperature uncertainty at 300 K (5.9°C at 230 K)

• Detects both reflected solar and earth-emitted thermal radiation

• Little atmospheric attenuation

• Sees earth surface and clouds

• Less sensitive to subpixel clouds than longwave infrared window channel, conversely it is more sensitive to subpixel fires

• Detects fog and water clouds at night when used with longwave infrared window channel

• Discriminates water versus ice cloud during daytime based on reflectivity

• Helps with detection of snow and ice during daytime

Click to go to Shortwave IR Channel Conceptual Map