Modification and validation of a new method to improve the accuracy of MODIS-derived dew point temperature over mainland China

MODIS atmospheric profile products (MOD07_L2 and MYD07_L2) have been widely used for near-surface dew point temperature ( T d ) estimation. However, their accuracy over large scale has seldom been evaluated. In this study, we validated these two products comprehensively against 2153 stations over mainland China. MOD07_L2 was suggested by our study because it achieved higher accuracy in either of two frequently-used methods. To be specific, the root-mean-square error (RMSE) achieved by MOD07_L2 and MYD07_L2 was 5.82 and 7.42 & DEG;C, respectively. On this basis, a recent ground-based correction method was modified to further improve their accuracy. Our focus is to investigate whether this ground-based approach is applicable to large-scale remote sensing applications. The results show that this new method showed great potential for T d estimation independently from ground observations. Through the introduction of MODIS land surface products, the RMSE it achieved for MOD07_L2 and MYD07_L2 was 5.23 and 5.59 & DEG;C, respectively. Further analysis shows that it was particularly useful in capturing the annual average T d patterns. The R2 , RMSE, and bias of annual average daily mean T d estimates were 0.95, 1.84 & DEG;C, and 0.53 & DEG;C, and those achieved for annual average instantaneous T d estimates were 0.94, 2.09 & DEG;C, and 0.75 & DEG;C, respectively.

Automated summary

MODIS atmospheric profile products (MOD07_L2 and MYD07_L2) were comprehensively evaluated for near-surface dew point temperature (Td) estimation in mainland China. MOD07_L2 showed higher accuracy in both commonly-used methods, with a RMSE of 5.82°C compared to 7.42°C for MYD07_L2. The introduction of MODIS land surface products and a modified ground-based correction method further improved the accuracy, particularly in capturing annual average Td patterns.