In late 2022, Terra, NASA’s Earth Observing System flagship, will be decommissioned after 23 years of orbiting the Earth. The Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) are two radiometers that are part of the Terra platform. In coordination with the Earth Science Data and Information System (ESDIS) and other Distributed Active Archive Centers (DAACs), the Land Processes (LP) DAAC plans to initiate data preservation activities for Missions that are scheduled to retire.
The Preservation Archive preserves data and associated documentation beyond the lifetime of Missions funded by NASA’s Earth Science Division. Although decommissioned Missions will no longer collect vital statistics of the Earth System, the longevity and integrity of data and supporting artifacts must be maintained in pristine condition for future scientists. The goal of the Preservation Archive is to maintain and provide data along with Preservation Content Specification components so that future generations of scientists can use the data in their research as well as understand the documentation associated with the data.
The LP DAAC is undertaking data preservation activities for Terra ASTER.
Data preservation contains eight sections:
The NASA Earth Science Data Preservation Content Specification provides additional information related to Long Term Archive activities.
Principle Investigators: U.S./Japan ASTER Science Team
ASTER Preservation Content Specification InformationMODIS Science Team / Principal Investigators
MODIS Preservation Content Specification Information