Worldwide variations in atmospheric transmission. I - Baseline results from Smithsonian observations.

The spectrobolometer used in the studies is discussed, giving attention to instrument design, the method of recording, and the spectral resolution. The atmospheric transmission for each wavelength was determined by making observations over a range of air masses. The precipitable water vapor values were found from the spectrobolograms by measurement of the depths of water vapor bands at 0.935, 1.13, and 1.47 microns. The results of the studies are discussed together with seasonal variations, long term trends, and the nature of the aerosols.