Science data processing for the Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer

Ground processing of data from the Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) instrument, part of NASA´s Earth Observing System (EOS), uses new and unique science algorithms because MISR´s multi-camera observing method has not previously been used anywhere. Extensive prototyping was required from a relatively primitive status. The data volume is large, necessitating an innovative software design approach that maximizes throughput. While the routine processing software was developed at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), data processing occurs at the NASA Langley Research Center using the EOS Core System (ECS), a collaborative arrangement that works well. Since the launch of MISR on the Terra Spacecraft in December 1999, with the availability of actual mission data, MISR´s actual computational needs have become better known, and increased efficiencies are being implemented to make best use of available computing resources. This science software is a sound foundation for processing the data from potential future multi-angle instruments