Atmospheric Absorption of Starlight

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    Absorption Atmospheric
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the atmospheric absorption of starlight, emphasizing that it varies significantly with frequency and altitude. There are no comprehensive tables available that quantify total bolometric absorption at Zenith compared to sea level. Factors influencing absorption include altitude, local humidity, particle concentration, and temperature. The distinction between Zenith and sea level is crucial for understanding these variations.

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  • Understanding of atmospheric physics
  • Knowledge of light frequency and bolometric measurements
  • Familiarity with the concepts of altitude and atmospheric conditions
  • Basic principles of optics and light absorption
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  • Research atmospheric absorption coefficients for different altitudes
  • Study the effects of humidity and temperature on light absorption
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Astronomers, atmospheric scientists, and educators interested in the effects of altitude and environmental factors on starlight absorption.

sderamus
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I realize that Starlight atmospheric absorption depends on frequency, but I was wondering if there are any tables indicated total bolometric absorption at Zenith relative to absorption at Sea Level. Obviously atmospheric absorption is much less on the top of Everest than in my hometown (a few hundred feet above sea level). But I'd like to know the difference.

TIA

sderamus
 
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The absorption depends on so many factors that there isn't (to my knowledge) any simple tables.

By the way Zenith refers to an angle in the sky (essentially straight up) while sea level refers to altitude on the Earth, so they are very different things! Absorption will depend on both of these factors as well as other conditions such as the local humidity, particle concentration and even temperature.
 

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