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Absorption of Solar Radiation by Clouds: An OverviewThis talk provides an overview of the subject of absorption of solar radiation by clouds in the earth's atmosphere. The paper summarizes the available evidence which points to disagreements between theoretical and observed values of cloud absorption (and reflections). The importance of these discrepancies, particularly to remote sensing of clouds as well as to studies of cloud physics and earth radiation budgets, is emphasized. Existing cloud absorption and reflection measurements are reviewed and the persistent differences that exist between calculated and measured near-infrared cloud albedos are highlighted. Various explanations for these reflection and absorption discrepancies are discussed under two separate paths: a theoretician's approach and an experimentalist's approach. Examples for the former approach include model accuracy tests, large-droplet hypothesis, excess absorbing aerosol, enhanced water vapor continuum absorption, and effects of cloud inhomogeneity. The latter approach focuses on discussions of instrumental device, calibration, operational strategy, and signal/noise separation. A recommendation for future activities on this subject will be given.
Document ID
20000109707
Acquisition Source
Goddard Space Flight Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Tsay, Si-Chee
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD United States)
Einaudi, Franco
Date Acquired
August 19, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2000
Subject Category
Solar Physics
Meeting Information
Meeting: National Central University, ACE-Asia Workshop
Location: Chung-Li
Country: Taiwan, Province of China
Start Date: July 17, 2000
End Date: July 21, 2000
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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