Comparisons of MODIS-Derived Lake Surface Temperature with Coincident MTU/GLOS Buoy Data in Lake Superior

Michigan Technological University (MTU) operates two Tidas, automated coastal monitoring Buoys, as part of the Great Lakes Observing System (GLOS). These buoys are located at both the south and north entrances to the Keweenaw Waterway (NOAA / NDBC buoy # 45025 and # 45023) and were used to assess the accuracy of the Lake Surface Temperature (LST) information provided from the MODIS satellite imaging systems. These observations were then compared to NOAA / GLERL\u27s, Great Lakes Coastal Forecasting System (GLCFS) modeled surface temperature and surface current predictions. The approach of combining satellite remotely sensed events with in-situ buoy observations and numerically modeled surface temperature and currents provides a powerful tool for assessing coastal conditions. These data, combined with additional buoy sensed point measurements of water quality parameters and vertical temperature distributions, further enhances the approach. Five Lake Superior, late summer upwelling event are analyzed utilizing this combined approach providing detailed descriptions of the evolution of these events