The visible channel senses reflected solar (sun) radiation that has a wavelength of .52 to .75 micrometers. Since this is the wavelength interval over which the human eye is sensitive, the channel is called visible, frequently abbreviated to VIS.

Clouds, the earth's atmosphere, and the earth's surface all absorb and reflect incoming solar radiation. The visible channel of a satellite senses reflected solar radiation. Since visible imagery is produced by reflected sunlight (radiation), it is only available during daylight hours.

Visible satellite images, which look like black and white photographs, are derived from the satellite signal. Clouds usually appear white while land and water surfaces appear in shades of gray or black.

Note that imagery can appear in single images (stills) or in animations or loops. The loops help meteorologists track the movement of different weather features over time.