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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Workbook for approximate calibration of solar radiation sensors. Technical memo

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6152271
The workbook outlines a method of calculating solar radiation from such determinable parameters as zenith angle of the sun, ground reflectivity, turbidity, and precipitable water. And, since correction factors for turbidity and precipitable water vapor are potential sources of error, the workbook also provides methods for determining or estimating the amount of error. Values of solar radiation so calculated for a given station can be compared with actual values obtained by instruments at that station, and the instruments can thus be calibrated . The method is accurate to within 5% to 10% of the world standard for prescribed conditions. Since the procedure calculates direct and global radiation under clear skies, the predicted values may also be used for applications other than calibration, such as evaluation of data from instruments of undetermined accuracy, provided that the procedure's limitations are appreciated.
Research Organization:
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Silver Spring, MD (USA). Air Resources Lab.
OSTI ID:
6152271
Report Number(s):
PB-289269
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English