An over-land aerosol optical depth data set for data assimilation by filtering, correction, and aggregation of MODIS Collection 5 optical depth retrievals.

The article presents a study that examines the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Collection 5 aerosol optical depth (AOD) retrieval overland based on comparison with AERONET Sun Photometer AOD for 4 years of data. The study reveals the effectiveness of a prognostic RMS error model as recommended by the MODIS science. It notes that there is higher compliance at the higher scan angles of MODIS products. It also emphasizes the performances of such products on Europe and Africa.