Verger, A; Baret, F; Weiss, M (2011). A multisensor fusion approach to improve LAI time series. REMOTE SENSING OF ENVIRONMENT, 115(10), 2460-2470.

Abstract
High-quality and gap-free satellite time series are required for reliable terrestrial monitoring. Moderate resolution sensors provide continuous observations at global scale for monitoring spatial and temporal variations of land surface characteristics. However, the full potential of remote sensing systems is often hampered by poor quality or missing data caused by clouds, aerosols, snow cover, algorithms and instrumentation problems. A multisensor fusion approach is here proposed to improve the spatio-temporal continuity, consistency and accuracy of current satellite products. It is based on the use of neural networks, gap filling and temporal smoothing techniques. It is applicable to any optical sensor and satellite product. In this study, the potential of this technique was demonstrated for leaf area index (LAI) product based on MODIS and VEGETATION reflectance data. The FUSION product showed an overall good agreement with the original MODIS LAI product but exhibited a reduction of 90% of the missing LAI values with an improved monitoring of vegetation dynamics, temporal smoothness, and better agreement with ground measurements. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DOI:
0034-4257

ISSN:
10.1016/j.rse.2011.05.006