Measurements of the energy exchange between earth and space from satellites during the 1960's

The net radiation budget of the earth-atmosphere system can be obtained from satellite measurements of the infrared radiant emittance and reflected and scattered solar radiation along with a knowledge of the solar constant. During the 1960's experimental and operational meteorological satellites carrying thermistor bolometer sensors were in orbit for about 60 months. Results from these measurements are given including: a global planetary albedo of 30%, long-term global radiation balance within measurement accuracy (2-3%), the net equator-to-pole radiation gradients that drive our atmospheric and oceanic circulations, as well as selected measurements of radiation budget terms over particular geographical areas.