An Overview of Two Decades of Systematic Evaluations of Canopy Radiative Transfer Models

Abstract

Space borne observations constitute a highly appropriate source of information to quantify and monitor Earth surface processes. The reliability that may be associated with the outcome of interpretation and assimilation efforts of these data, however, relies heavily on the actual performance of the available modeling tools. Scientists, space agencies and policy makers that want to make use or support the derivation of quantitative information from space observations must therefore have access to indicators describing the quality of the models and algorithms that are used in retrievals. As a formalization of earlier model verification efforts the RAdiation transfer Model Intercomparison (RAMI) initiative was launched in 1999 in an attempt to shed light on the reliability and accuracy of physically-based canopy radiative transfer models simulating the interactions between sunlight and vegetation. This contribution documents the evolution and achievements of RAMI and provides an outlook of challenges and opportunities that still lie ahead.JRC.DDG.H.3-Global environement monitorin