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), NASA's 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.
LP DAAC is undertaking data preservation activities for Terra ASTER.
Data preservation contains eight sections:
- Preflight/Pre-Operations Calibration
- Science Data Products
- Product Documentation
- Mission Calibration
- Science Data Product Software
- Science Data Product Algorithm Input
- Science Data Product Validation
- Science Data Software Tools
The NASA Earth Science Data Preservation Content Specification provides additional information related to Long Term Archive activities.