Arctic haze and the radiation balance

Airborne measurements of the absorption of solar radiation by the Arctic haze indicate atmospheric heating rates of 0.15 to 0.25/Kday at latitudes between 72.6 and 74.0 N during the early spring. The haze interaction with solar radiation alters the radiative balance of the atmosphere-surface system. Generally, this interaction results in an increase of the solar energy absorbed by the atmosphere and in a decrease of the radiation absorbed by the ground. The cumulative deposition of black carbon over the surface produces a change in the optical properties of the ice which may results in an accelerating rate of ice melt. Experimental evidence of the magnitude of this effect is necessary to properly evaluate its consequences. An extended monitoring program is suggested.