MODIS (or Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) is a key instrument aboard the Terra (originally known as EOS AM-1) and Aqua (originally known as EOS PM-1) satellites. Terra's orbit around the Earth is timed so that it passes from north to south across the equator in the morning, while Aqua passes south to north over the equator in the afternoon. Terra MODIS and Aqua MODIS are viewing the entire Earth's surface every 1 to 2 days, acquiring data in 36 spectral bands, or groups of wavelengths (see MODIS Technical Specifications).
Data extracted from Pacific-Australia Climate Change Science and Adaptation Planning Program (PACCSAPP) Reports
CSIRO Climate Change in Niue 2008
This policy applies to SPREP’s own data as well as data held by SPREP on behalf of government agencies and partners within the Pacific.