Air Pollution Assessment using Satellite Data: A Case Study of Greater Bangkok

This project aims to investigate the potential of satellite data and to use them for the spatiotemporal and severity assessment of surface PM_2.5 (particulate matter whose diameter is 2.5 um or smaller) in Greater Bangkok, the largest urban agglomeration in Upper Southeast Asia and also the most important socio-economic hub of Thailand. Moderate-resolution aerosol optical depth (AOD) data from the Medium Resolution Spectrum Imager (MERSI) onboard Fengyun satellite(s) of China is the interested data for application. The current interest is low-Earth orbit satellite monitoring. Other satellite AOD data, especially, the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) onboard the Aqua/Terra satellites of the NASA (US) and the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) onboard the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (S-NPP) satellite, may be alternatively used if necessary. Geostationary satellite monitoring is not included in the study but may be optionally included. In-situ data (surface PM_2.5, meteorological variables, and land-related data) will be collected from relevant local agencies to support the advanced statistical modeling of surface PM_2.5 at a daily time scale. Model performance will be assessed. It is hoped that this project promotes the use of Asia-native satellite data for real-world problems, which is here urban air pollution. The maps produced and findings from the assessment can be shared with local health-risk community and air quality authorities. The methodology will also have the potential for use to support air pollution assessment in the past and day-to-day monitoring.