In this paper, an evaluation strategy for twocandidate satellite-derived SM products is presented. In particular, we analyze the performance of two candidate algorithms [soil moisture ocean salinity (SMOS)-based soil moisture (SM) and advanced scatterometer (ASCAT)-based SM] to monitor SM in Pampas Plain. The difficulties associated with commonly used evaluation techniques are addressed, and techniques that do not require ground-based observations are presented. In particular, we introduce comparisons with a land-surface model (GLDAS) and SM anomalies and triple collocation analyses. Then, we discuss the relevance of these analyses in the context of end-users requirements, and propose an extreme events-detection analysis based on anomalies of the standardized precipitation index (SPI) and satellite-based SM anomalies. The results show that: 1) both ASCAT and SMOS spatial anomalies data are able to reproduce the expected SM spatial patterns of the area; 2) both ASCAT and SMOS temporal anomalies are able to follow the measured in situ SM temporal anomalies; and 3) both products were able to monitor large SPI extremes at specific vegetation conditions.
Illumination simulation codes for the Moon's surface have been thoroughly developed during the last years. Despite works done for the Moon, no studies have investigated the relation between sunlight illumination and the Martian surface applying those codes done for the Moon to Mars. The objective of this work is to describe the development of a surface illumination simulation code, called MarsLux, which allows users to make a detailed investigation of the illumination conditions on Mars, based on its topography and the relative position of the Sun. Our code can derive accurate illumination maps, form topographic data, showing areas that are fully illuminated, areas in total shadow, and areas with partial shade, in short computational times. Although the code does not take into account any atmospheric effect, the results proved to be of high accuracy. The maps generated are useful for geomorphological studies, to study gullies, thermal weathering, or mass wasting processes as well as for producing energy budget maps for future exploration missions.
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