AVHRR3

The AVHRR3 (Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer 3) is a high-resolution radiometer designed to collect data on the Earth's surface and atmosphere. Developed by Harris Corporation and launched in 1995 as part of the NOAA-14 satellite, the AVHRR3 was an improvement over its predecessor, the AVHRR2.

The AVHRR3 featured three channels operating in the visible and infrared parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. These channels were designed to observe ocean color, sea surface temperature, and vegetation health. The instrument also included a dedicated channel for detecting fog and cloud cover. With a ground resolution of up to 1.08 km at nadir, the AVHRR3 provided high-resolution data for a wide range of Earth observation applications.

AVHRR3 data has been used for various purposes including climate research, ocean color analysis, and land surface monitoring. The instrument played an essential role in monitoring ocean color and algal blooms, which affects ocean ecosystems and fisheries. The AVHRR3 also contributed to the development of models for predicting sea surface temperature and ocean currents.

The AVHRR3 was used in conjunction with other satellite instruments to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's surface and atmosphere. Although the AVHRR3 ceased operations in 2007, after the launch of the NOAA-NASA IGES instrument, its data remains valuable for researchers and scientists. The legacy of the AVHRR3 continues to serve as a foundation for next-generation Earth observation instruments. Its operational period supported numerous Earth science research projects and improved our understanding of the Earth's complex systems.