Visible
Channel
Measure the reflected visible light.
Only available in daytime.
Bright colors θ clouds or snow
Dark colors θ oceans or forest
Infrared
Channel
Measure the infrared radiation emitted by Earth and atmosphere.
Work both day and night.
Bright colors θ colder surface
Dark colors θ warmer surface
Water
Vapor Channel
Provides water vapor information.
Works day and night.
Can identify jetstream locations.
Bright colors θ moist airs.
Dark colors θ dry airs.