Surface Reflectance (BOA)

Surface reflectance, sometimes called BOA (bottom-of-atmosphere), is produced by correcting TOA measurements for atmospheric scattering and absorption.

Surface reflectance is typically more stable over time, which helps with vegetation indices, change detection, and machine learning. That stability depends on correction quality and on having consistent processing across scenes.

Surface reflectance is still an estimate. Bright surfaces, thin cirrus, smoke, snow, and complex terrain can reduce accuracy. For robust monitoring, it helps to use quality masks and avoid over-interpreting small changes.