Assessment of the Urban Heat Island Effect Through the Use of Satellite Data

Abstract

A recent NASA satellite is obtaining high spatial resolution thermal infrared data at times of day appropriate for, the study of the urban heat island effect. Quantitative estimates of the extent and intensity of urban surface heating are obtained by analysis of digital data acquired over the New York City–New England area. In many large cities satellite sensed temperatures are 10–15°C warmer than in surrounding rural areas. A thorough interpretation of the elevated urban surface temperature will require studies of 1) the relationship between remotely sensed surface temperatures and air temperatures, and 2) compensation for observed very localized heating due to industry and/or power plants.