Title: An Australian Algorithm for ET: SAM-ET

Authors: Yann Chemin, Mohsin Hafeez

Abstract:

Australian environmental conditions are unique. Evapotranspiration algorithms using RS

data created in other parts of the World need adaptation to successfully work in Australian
conditions. A novel algorithm for calculating ET from remote sensing is being implemented
within Australia, for Australian irrigation systems initially, where crop water consumption is
a crucial part of the water ordering decision-making and financial flow.

SAM-ET is an energy balance algorithm based on thermodynamic flux and radiation

equilibrium within the Earth skin surface. It is being constantly developed and evaluated on
water related projects for several years. Large fields campaigns have continuously been
carried out to ascertain inputs and validate outputs. A comprehensive instrumentation
setup is also supporting the model development, with some of the most sophisticated
energy balance related instrumentation set up in the paddocks directly.

A conceptual description pertaining to some of the internal specifics, two-sources

initialization, constraints and energy balance convergence. Boundary conditions and data
workflow are also commented. While the SAM-ET is still in refining process, some of the
internal uses have shown encouraging results to provide Australia with its own
evapotranspiration energy balance model. through our web service, meaning to real-time
processing.