The discussion focuses on the detectable wavelengths of electromagnetic energy at the Earth's surface, specifically in the infrared spectrum. Approximately 50% of the light reaching the surface is infrared, despite expectations that longer wavelengths would be more absorbed by the atmosphere. Atmospheric moisture significantly absorbs infrared radiation, which is why infrared telescopes, such as those on Mauna Kea, are positioned at high altitudes to minimize this interference. Additional resources, including diagrams and detailed explanations of solar radiation levels, are provided for further understanding.
PREREQUISITESResearchers in atmospheric science, astronomers utilizing infrared telescopes, and environmental scientists studying solar radiation effects on Earth.
A quick Google will give you info on this. About 50% of light that reaches the Earth's surface is infra red according to searches. I'm surprised by that, I would have thought longer wavelengths would be more readily absorbed by the atmosphere.CRuff said:
Nice diagramCRuff said:
A lot of IR is absorbed by atmospheric moisture. That is why IR telescopes are built on very high mountain tops to get above most of the atmospheric water vapour ... eg. the one on top of Mauna Keapinball1970 said:
My son visited the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope in Hawaii last year but did not get the data he needed as it was clouded over for 10 days pretty much. Go to Hawaii and get Manchester weather...davenn said:
Was probably during the hurricane season LOL ... the summit was closed when I was there last year as well because of Hurricane Lanepinball1970 said:
