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The Algorithm Publication Tool (APT) enables the creation of standardized Algorithm Theoretical Basis Documents (ATBDs), promoting open, reproducible science. ATBDs document the theoretical and mathematical foundations of algorithms used in Earth observation, ensuring transparency, reproducibility, and accessibility of scientific data.

Key Objectives

  • Streamline the ATBD creation and submission process.
  • Foster collaboration among researchers and Distributed Active Archive Centers (DAACs).
  • Ensure reproducibility through standard documentation.

ATBD Template

For Authors

  1. Select Your Template: Choose between Google Docs, Microsoft Word, or LaTeX.
  2. Follow Template Structure: Don’t modify the predefined headers in the template.
  3. Complete Your ATBD: Add content based on the guidelines within the template.
  4. Review Process: Have your ATBD reviewed by peers or experts.
  5. Submit: Submit your completed document to the appropriate DAAC.

For DAACs

  1. Versioning is critical to maintaining the integrity and traceability of ATBDs. Please refer to our versioning guidelines for instructions on how to properly handle versioning.
  2. DOI Registration: Ensure that a DOI is registered and maintained for the document. A new DOI is required for major updates. See the ESDIS DOI Submission Process for more information.  
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Visual representation of the stepwise process for ATBD creation, review, and submission, highlighting key tasks for authors and DAACs.

Tool at a Glance

APT News

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Learn more about the NASA Commercial Satellite Data Acquisition (CSDA) program vendor ICEYE US and how to discover, access, and work with ICEYE's high-resolution SAR products.
Webinar
April 15, 2025
The Algorithm Publication Tool offers a standardized development process by providing a single authoring tool and central repository for NASA’s Earth Science Division.
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Dec. 7, 2023
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APT Learning Resources

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Learn more about the NASA Commercial Satellite Data Acquisition (CSDA) program vendor ICEYE US and how to discover, access, and work with ICEYE's high-resolution SAR products.
Webinar
April 15, 2025
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