NSF SpecNet Proposal
NCEAS SpecNet Proposal
NSF SpecNet Proposal Excerpt:
This proposal is to support the further development of SpecNet (Spectral Network), an international association of collaborating investigators and sites where optical measurements are being added to flux measurements to understand carbon and water vapor fluxes. This "breathing of the Earth," comprised of photosynthesis, respiration and evapotranspiration, is fundamental to the Earth's carbon and hydrological cycles, and affects both atmospheric composition and climate, yet remains poorly quantified. In this project, "optical data" refers to a wide range of non-contact measurements (e.g. spectral reflectance) that are a form of remote sensing collected at multiple spatial scales, often using manual or automated field sampling methods.
Read the full NSF proposal (pdf format)
NCEAS SpecNet Proposal Excerpt:
SpecNet ( Spectral Network) is a network of terrestrial flux tower sites where 'near surface' remote sensing is being conducted to improve our understanding of controls on the biosphere-atmosphere carbon exchange. SpecNet sampling closely matches the spatial and temporal scale of flux measurements, allowing a direct comparison of remotely sensed signals to factors affecting fluxes. We propose a SpecNet Working Group that will examine the optical, thermal, and flux data emerging from these sites. A primary goal will be to standardize the remote sensing instrument, algorithms, data processing protocols, and data products for comparative analyses. The next step will be to compare results across ecosystems to reveal contrasting controls on carbon flux. This effort will help link remote sensing to fluxes, assist in validating satellite products (e.g. NPP derived from the MODIS sensor), and will provide an improved scientific foundation for emerging carbon policy.