The following care instructions are applicable to MicaSense Calibrated Reflectance Panels (CPRs) with a serial number starting with RP04 or later. Below is an example of what a RP04 model CRP looks like:
The instructions below are not meant for use with CRPs that have a serial number starting with P, RP01, RP02, or RP03.
With the older panels (RP03 and older), one should not attempt to clean it. The manufacturer's guidelines state that due to the material being porous, it should not be cleaned. It can and will collect dust eventually, and brushing the panels will just embed this dust into the pores. It will also be ruined if any liquids come in contact with the surface.
Unfortunately with these older panels, once they are visibly dusty it is probably time to retire them. You could continue to use your panel but, as you know, the reflectance values will be off by some margin, and as such, will not calibrate your results as accurately as they once did.
Care instructions for RP04 panels or newer
The MicaSense CRP should be handled with care and treated like a scientific instrument. When in the field, we recommend only having the panel case open when you are taking panel images and keeping it closed at all other times. Be sure not to touch the CRP with your bare hands, as dirt, oil, or grease on your hands may lead to degradation of the panel. If your panel becomes soiled with dust or dirt, you can clean the panel using a photobrush to lightly brush off the debris. If necessary, de-ionized water may be used with the photobrush to remove debris as well. You may also use medical-grade (or 4.0) nitrogen to clean the panel. The panel should be stored with the lid shut, in a temperature controlled environment.
Do not store any items inside the panel enclosure, or set any heavy objects on top of the panel while the lid is shut.
CAUTION: The manufacturer does not recommend using compressed air as a cleaning method.