The Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer: Contributing to Earth Observations for over 40 Years

Abstract The Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometers (AVHRR), which have been flying on National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) polar-orbiting weather satellites since 1978, provide the longest global record of Earth observations from a visible–infrared imager. Experience gained through AVHRRs has integral to development new-generation sensors such as Moderate Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), Visible Infrared Radiometer Suite (VIIRS), associated data processing algorithms in United States, well similar class sensor by space agencies around world. Over four decades vital for studying its change. MetOp-C satellite that was successfully launched 2018 carries last AVHRR. This article reviews contributions AVHRR building continuous over 40 years occasion launch.