Analysis of MODIS cloud masking algorithm using direct broadcast data over Korea and its improvement

The information on the cloud presence within a instantaneous field of view is the first step toward the derivation of many other geophysical parameters. Here, we first applied the current MODIS cloud detection algorithm developed by University of Wisconsin and compared the results to a visual interpretation of composite data, especially during the daytime. Most of cases, the detection algorithm performs very well, except a few cases with over-detection. One of the reasons for the false detection is due to the time independent use of land information which affects the threshold values of visible channel test. In the presentation, we show detailed analysis of the current cloud detection algorithm and suggest possible way to overcome the current shortfall.