MODIS (or Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) is a key instrument aboard the Terra (EOS AM) and Aqua (EOS PM) 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.

• 18 March 2009 - MERCI-MODIS service - operation resumed
• 23 February 2009 - MERCI-MODIS service unavailability
• 11 February 2009 - MODIS Terra and Aqua NRT data via MERCI-MODIS

• ESA acquires MODIS Data via direct broadcast stations at Matera, Mapalomas, Kiruna and DLR.
• Product Details - detailed descriptions of data.
• Reference Documents for information on data format.
• How to order ESA data

Operators: NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
Launch Dates / Status:
Terra: 18 December 1999 - operating nominally
Aqua: 4 May 2002 - operating nominally
Orbit Height: 705 km
Orbit Type: Sun-synchronous circular
Repeat Cycle: 16 days
Resolution: 1 km
Swath Width: 2330 km
Onboard Sensors provided under TPM:
+ MODIS (Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer)