SEVIRI: Cloud Mask Dataset: Very High Resolution

The SEVIRI cloud mask dataset has been generated and released by the EUMETSAT Satellite Application Facility on Climate Monitoring (CM SAF) to enhance the cloud property dataset CLAAS. The SEVIRI cloud mask dataset contains the cloud mask in 15 minutes temporal resolution. The dataset is pixel based, where a SEVIRI pixel is about 4x4 km² in size, depending on location in SEVIRI's field of view. The data are provided with regional coverage from ± 60° N/S and ± 60° E/W. Inter-calibrated effective radiances of Meteosat-8 and 9 form the basis of the cloud mask dataset which spans 9 years from 2004 to 2012. The dataset is complemented with a comprehensive documentation of the algorithms used and the generation of the dataset. Validation studies and user guidance are available as well. With this dataset, small, regional and large scale cloud processes at temporal scales of hours to years can be studied. In addition, the dataset is suited for all applications in which a conservative cloud mask is essential (e.g. land surface, aerosol or trace gas retrievals).

CM SAF provides data sets of several cloud parameters, surface albedo, radiation fluxes at the top of the atmosphere and at the surface, atmospheric temperature and water vapour profiles as well as vertically integrated water vapour (total, layered integrated).