Real-Time Estimation of Satellite-Derived PM_2.5 Based on a Semi-Physical Geographically Weighted Regression Model

The real-time estimation of ambient particulate matter with diameter no greater than 2.5 μm (PM_2.5) is currently quite limited in China. A semi-physical geographically weighted regression (GWR) model was adopted to estimate PM_2.5 mass concentrations at national scale using the Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Aerosol Optical Depth product fused by the Dark Target (DT) and Deep Blue (DB) algorithms, combined with meteorological parameters. The fitting results could explain over 80% of the variability in the corresponding PM_2.5 mass concentrations, and the estimation tends to overestimate when measurement is low and tends to underestimate when measurement is high. Based on World Health Organization standards, results indicate that most regions in China suffered severe PM_2.5 pollution during winter. Seasonal average mass concentrations of PM_2.5 predicted by the model indicate that residential regions, namely Jing-Jin-Ji Region and Central China, were faced with challenge from fine particles. Moreover, estimation deviation caused primarily by the spatially uneven distribution of monitoring sites and the changes of elevation in a relatively small region has been discussed. In summary, real-time PM_2.5 was estimated effectively by the satellite-based semi-physical GWR model, and the results could provide reasonable references for assessing health impacts and offer guidance on air quality management in China.