Objective assessment of the NOAA global vegetation index data product

Abstract

For the last 10 years the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has produced an experimental Global Vegetation Index (GVI) data set for terrestrial vegetation research. These data, sampled from advanced very high resolution radiometer (AVHRR) observations, have served as a primary stimulus for global-scale vegetation research but have, so far, not been adequately evaluated. This study reviews the GVI production procedures and compares the resultant observations with a more comprehensive compilation of the AVHRR data being produced at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. There are many aspects of the GVI production procedures which could be improved to achieve the desired objectives. In particular, the mapping and sampling procedures employed provide measurements which only approximate the observed GAC measurements. The GVI NDVI record varies more than ±NDVI units (∼ 7 per cent of signal) from the GAC record and, in general, seriously underestimates the GAC NDVI measurements. The NDVI portion of the GVI record is compromised through use of digital numbers rather than calibrated reflectance. NDVI measurements from the calibrated channels of the GVI data set produces values that compare favourably with the GAC measurements, but with considerable residual variance. Calculation of a 3 by 3 pixel average of the GVI NDVI measurements reduces residual variance between the data sets to ±0.018 NDVI units (∼3 per cent of signal). Decay of sensor calibration and orbital overpass time, experienced by all the AVHRR sensors, as well as differences in these parameters between the sensors are not addressed but the results suggest the importance of accounting for these factors. These results indicate that GVI data sets, following adequate reprocessing, provide reasonable estimates of major regional contrasts in vegetation activity but should not be employed to evaluate local or minor trends.